1715 Fleet Gold and Coral Rosary with Cross, accompanied by two Certificates of Authenticity (COA): the Original Real Eight COA signed by L.B. Taylor and the renowned archaeologist James Sinclair, who is best known for his work with Mel Fisher’s treasure hunters on both the Atocha and 1715 Fleet expeditions. The top archaeologist James Sinclair’s COA is also part of this unique piece. Sinclair’s expertise has been showcased on the History Channel’s “Cooper’s Treasure” and “Expeditions Unknown,” where he has been involved in significant discoveries, including Christopher Columbus’ Anchor from his original voyage. Don’t miss out on this special treasure from the lost Galleons of the 1715 Fleet.
We have also shared a video showcasing the discovery of several Rosaries found inside the “Golden Box,” along with some Gold and Gemstone Rings (featured on the Travel Channel in 2003). This Rosary, which is fully intact, measures approximately 33 inches in length and weighs around 22.5 grams. It consists of 57 handcrafted spherical Coral Beads (each about 5mm in size) and 13 Mesh inserts (about 10mm). The Cross, made of pure gold (around 22 karats, same as the mesh inserts), is ornately designed and measures approximately 2.25 x 1.1875 inches.
The Golden Box was unearthed near Wabasso, FL (close to Turtle Trail) by Mike Maguire, as shown on the Travel Channel episode. This Rosary is a precious Religious Jewel. The red coral in the Rosary was believed to have protective powers against magic spells, tracing back to Greek mythology where it was said to have originated from the blood spurting out when Perseus decapitated Medusa. These Rosaries were highly sought after by Spanish royals, including Queen Joanna (Juana la Loca), and were considered valuable by royalty.
It is possible that this specific Rosary was intended for the new Queen, Elizabeth Farnese, as part of her dowry required by King Philip V for their marriage. Although the jewels never made it to her, she went on to marry him and bore seven children. A significant amount of the gold and jewels on these fleets belonged to the church, so it is also likely that this Rosary may have belonged to a priest, bishop, or the church itself. Interestingly, many of the Queen’s jewels, such as diamond brooches and earrings, have been discovered in the same area as the Golden Box, Rosary, and rings.
There are approximately 3 or 4 similar Rosaries from the 1715 FLEET, with 2 or 3 being found in the GOLDEN BOX. Unlike the others, these Rosaries have Coral beads that have not oxidized or corroded with barnacles, making them in much better condition. One of these Rosaries even has graffiti on the Crucifix. This particular Rosary is said to be in the best condition based on our research. It is reminiscent of a Rosary that was auctioned by Christie’s in 1988 (lot 155), selling for $154,000.
