The value of a coin from the 1622 Atocha shipwreck can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:
- Grade/Condition: Coins are categorized into different grades (typically I, II, III, and IV) based on their condition and legibility. Grade 1 coins, for example, are considered to be in exceptional condition and fetch higher prices.
- Denomination: The denomination of the coin (e.g., 2 Reales, 4 Reales, 8 Reales) can impact its value, with higher denominations generally being more valuable.
- Mint and Assayer: Details like the mint where the coin was struck and the assayer who oversaw its production can also influence its rarity and value, especially for rare assayer marks or specific mints.
- Provenance and Certification: A coin’s history and whether it has been certified by a reputable authority, especially with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from Mel Fisher’s company or another recognized entity, significantly impact its value and desirability among collectors.
- Market demand and trends: The overall market demand for Atocha coins and broader trends in the numismatic market can also play a role in determining current prices.
Here are some examples of recently offered or sold Atocha coins and their prices:
- 8 Reales Coins:
– An Atocha 8 Reales coin (year not specified, but from the 1622 shipwreck) was offered for $775.
– A 1618-1622 Bolivia Nuestra Senora de Atocha Shipwreck Silver 8 Reales, graded by PNCS with a COA, was offered for $2500.
– Another Atocha 8 Reales (1622) Grade 2 coin with a specific number was offered for $3750.
– A Rare Silver 8 Reales Coin from the Atocha, certified and signed by Mel Fisher, minted between 1619-1622 at Potosi, Peru, was listed for $8450.
– A 1622 Atocha Shipwreck 8 Reales Grade 1 from the Potosi Mint with a COA was highlighted as particularly valuable due to its condition and history.
– A “GRADE 1 ATOCHA RESEARCH COLLECTION MEL FISHER COA & TAG BOLIVIA SILVER COIN” 8 Reales sold for $7950.
– A Grade 3 Atocha 8 Reales was offered for $4000.
– A Grade 2 Atocha 8 Reales was listed for $6,200.
- 4 Reales Coins:
– An Atocha 1622 Shipwreck – 4 Reales – Grade 2 – Mexico mint – Dated: #618 is priced at $7300.
– An Atocha shipwreck 4 Reales, Grade 3, Mexico Mint, mounted in a 14k custom anchor is listed for $7200.
- 2 Reales Coins:
– A Grade 1 Atocha Shipwreck coin, 2 Reales, 1622, from Bolivia with a COA was listed on eBay.
– Another 2 Reales, 1622, Grade 1 coin is being offered for $2,500.
- Other Items:
– A 1622 Atocha Shipwreck Emerald was sold for $816.95 at auction.
– An Atocha 1622 CERTIFIED EMERALD at “OVER 5 Carats” with Mel Fisher Tag & COA was listed for $8950.
– A 1622 Atocha silver bar slice was offered for $2850.
– A 1622 Atocha silver bar (13 lbs) was listed for $34,900.
Important Notes:
- These prices represent recent offers and sales and are subject to change based on market conditions.
- The information above is for general guidance only and it is recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert for a precise valuation of a specific Atocha coin.
- Mel Fisher’s company and other authorized dealers specialize in Atocha coins and can provide further information and assistance with buying or selling.
How do I know if my Atocha coin is real?
Provenance: Authentic Atocha coins come with well-documented histories and certificates of authenticity, tracing their recovery back to the shipwreck. Mint Markings: Inspect the coin for mint markings, date, and denomination, as these should align with the historical records.
Are Atocha coins going up in value?
From my experience, As historical artifacts with limited availability, Atocha coins going up in value make them an appealing investment option for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
How many silver Atocha coins were found?
The Nuestra Senora de Atocha carried over 200,000 hand stamped silver coins from mints in Potosi, Lima and Mexico City. To date, only 128 gold Atocha coins have been recovered! The gold Atocha coins were minted in Spain, as gold coins were not minted in the New World in 1622.
What are Atocha coins made of?
From my experience, Discovered by Mel Fisher in 1985, it is the most valuable shipwreck to be recovered. Each coin is set in either sterling silver or 14k gold and comes with a certificate of authenticity.