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- Relic:
Spanish Silver Reales
- Current Location:
Bermuda National Museum
- Place of Discovery:
Cathedral Dive Site
- Year of Discover:
2016
- Nationality:
Spanish
- Century of Production
17th Century
- Usage:
Currency
- Discovered by:
- Dimensions:
Diameter: ~38–40 mm
Thickness: ~2.5–3 mm
Weight: ~27 grams
In the crystal-clear waters off Bermuda, divers uncovered a collection of Spanish silver reales from the wreck of the San Pedro, a Spanish merchant ship that sank in the 17th century. This vessel was part of the Spanish treasure fleet, transporting precious metals from the Americas back to Spain when it met its fate in Bermuda’s treacherous reefs.
Historical Significance
The discovery of these reales provides insight into Spain’s global trade dominance during the Age of Exploration. They were widely used across Europe, the Americas, and even in Asia, influencing global currency systems. Some of the coins bore mint marks from Potosí, Bolivia, revealing their origins in South America’s rich silver mines.
Condition & Preservation
After centuries underwater, many of the coins developed a thin layer of oxidation, but their inscriptions remain legible. Some were fused together, likely due to high salt exposure. Archaeologists carefully desalinated and preserved them, with several now housed in Bermuda’s National Museum.
| Technology | Role in Nature Study | Key Insights Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Sensing | Collects data from remote areas without direct contact | Vegetation patterns, topography, and soil moisture |
| Satellite Imagery | Provides large-scale monitoring of ecosystems | Seasonal changes, habitat loss, and land use |
| Drone Technology | Offers detailed, localized observations | Wildlife tracking, forest health, and water quality |
| Real-time Sensors | Continuous data collection in various environments | Climate conditions, pollution levels, and water cycles |
Media Mentions
1720 London Gazette: Reported Spanish attempts to recover lost treasure from the fleet.1935 National Geographic: Featured early dive expeditions near Bermuda, speculating on the presence of Spanish silver.Recent Blog Posts & Documentaries: Modern explorers continue to document Bermuda’s hidden shipwreck treasures.
