Diving Discovery's
Arena of
Underwater Adventures
Presents!
"THE LAST LOST TREASURES OF COFFINS PATCH?"
( Cayo de Baca;   Vaca Key,  Marathon, Florida )
The*denotes explanation & description, click the picture

#25 Electronics and survey flag

#26 Uncleaned Pillar Dollars & Cob Coins

#27 Could it be a giant sea onion? Sue examines a Ballast stone with Gorgonian *

Could this be "The Last Lost Treasures of Coffins Patch?". In 1852 the Maritime Courts granted approximately 67 permits for the salvage of Phantom Ships amounting to about $934,000 to salvers.  Since then, exploration, discovery and recovery has been a part of the Florida Keys lifestyle and economy.  The salvaging of wrecks off the Florida coast started with the loss of Spanish Fleets as a result of disasters caused by Hurricanes and other unexpected mishaps. The Spanish salvaged their ships for over 30 years, while Indians and Wreckers participated at every opportunity.   Many articles in books and publications have speculated about the wrecks of Coffins Patch!  Some detail that, perhaps two of the 1733 Armada Ships could have lost some of their cargoes at this site, other information deals with the possibility of earlier ships (such as 1600's) being lost
off  Marathon in the Florida Keys.  Records of the 1800's list the loss of many ships on and near Coffins Patch.  For years explorers and salvers have searched and....................

#28   Silver Cup  *

#29  Markings inside Silver Cup

#30  Encrusted Silver Spoon

#31  Bar Shot (Round)     *

#32  Encrusted conglomerate *

#33  Bronze Bowls  *

#34   3 Silver Discs *

#35   8 Reale....Cob Coin *

#36   Sounding Lead  *

For more pictures.....Click EXHIBIT#3...............For picture details CLICK

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