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What makes shipwreck coins so special?

Rarity

Out of the thousands of ships that sink to the bottom of the sea, few are recovered – fewer still with viable coins. The inventory of coins available to the public is very limited, the chance to own, rare.

Historical significance

As tangible reminders of our rich heritage, authentic shipwreck coins offer a glimpse into America’s past. Each coin is a touchstone of the values and ideals that built our great nation and presents a unique opportunity to truly own a piece of history.

Eye appeal

Many shipwreck coins have retained their beauty despite a lifetime in salty waters. A century or more after they were struck, these coins still boast sculptured details, golden luster and bold, full strikes that will make them desired by collectors around the world.

Purchase shipwreck coins now.

Home > Coin Guide > Shipwreck coins, gold treasure - own a piece of history.

Sunken ships. Legendary treasures. Thrilling recoveries.

Valued at $1.6 million, the gold came in all forms – dust, nuggets, ingots and, of course, coins.

Over one hundred forty years later, the stage has been set for the coin collecting opportunity of a lifetime.

A once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of history. Authentic shipwreck coins from the S.S. Central America , the S.S. Republic and the S.S. Brother Jonathan.

It’s a rare occasion: after a century or more at the bottom of the sea, a ship that went to its watery grave with a dazzling array of gold coins is discovered with the treasure intact. Rarer still, the opportunity to own one of these exciting pieces of history.

Lost no more!

Blanchard and Company, Inc. is proud to present authentic shipwreck coins. Through a special arrangement, we have acquired a limited quantity. The legend behind these coins, combined with the awesome beauty of the coins themselves, help to make shipwreck coins among the most desirable collectibles ever. Now these spectacular coins once presumed lost are available for Blanchard and Company, Inc. clients to own, enjoy and proudly display.

Browse our shipwreck coins inventory now.

“The greatest treasure ever found” – coins from the S.S. Central America

In 1857, an elegant side-wheel steamer left San Francisco en route to New York, its passengers primarily prospectors who had made their fortunes during the California Gold Rush. The wreck of the S.S. Central America, loaded with more than two tons of gold dust, nuggets, coins and ingots, set off the Panic of 1857. After more than a century in 8,500 feet of water, the S.S. Central America – and its historical gold coins and bars now valued at over $100 million – has been recovered.

Learn more about S.S. Central America coins.

Gleaming keepsakes of a post-Civil War economy – coins from the S.S. Republic

In 1865, the ex-military carrier S.S. Republic headed to New Orleans on her regular run from New York, loaded with gold and other cargo. The hurricane she encountered en route proved deadly and the proud ship disappeared off the coast of Georgia. In 2003, it was recovered in 1,700 feet of water after 12 years of searching.

Learn more about S.S. Republic coins.

A story not yet finished – coins from the S.S. Brother Jonathan

On July 20, 1865, the S.S. Brother Jonathan set sail from San Francisco to Portland. Not long after disembarking, a storm engulfed the cargo-laden vessel, and 30-foot waves pummelled its decks. The captain turned the ship around, intending to return to safety, but the ship struck a reef and sank. In 1996, some of the ship’s gold coins and bars were located and recovered, but the ship’s safe containing millions of dollars in jewels, gold bars and gold coins has not yet been found.