COLOMBIA 2 ESCUDOS 1700-13 CHARLES II 1715 FLEET SHIPWRECK NGC 62 PIRATE COINS

Description: The Colombia 2 Escudos (1700–1713) “Charles II”, certified as NGC MS 62 and attributed to the 1715 Fleet shipwreck, is a remarkable artifact from the early 18th century. Minted at the Nuevo Reino de Granada mint, this coin (KM14.1, Fr-3) boasts bright luster and an impressive diameter of approximately 22mm. Its design features a well-centered cross, with intact fleurs-de-lis in the quadrants, encapsulating the iconic "pirate era" aesthetic. The outer legends, including "HISPANIRUM," are well-preserved, adding to its historical and numismatic significance.The Historical Context of Charles II's Reign Charles II of Spain, often called "El Hechizado" (The Bewitched) due to his poor health and alleged curses tied to his lineage, reigned from 1665 until his death in 1700. His reign marked the decline of the Spanish Habsburg dynasty, plagued by military defeats, economic struggles, and internal decay. Charles, the last Habsburg king of Spain, had no heir, leading to a major European power struggle over the Spanish throne. On his deathbed, Charles named his grandnephew, Philip V of Bourbon, as his successor, triggering the War of Spanish Succession (1701–1714). This conflict reshaped the European political landscape, with Spain and its vast colonial empire caught in the crossfire of Bourbon and Habsburg ambitions. The war ended with the Treaty of Utrecht, solidifying Philip V's rule but at significant territorial and political costs to Spain.The 1715 Plate Fleet Shipwrecks In the aftermath of the War of Spanish Succession, Spain sought to rebuild its depleted treasury by transporting vast quantities of wealth from the Americas. This effort led to the formation of the ill-fated 1715 Plate Fleet, a convoy of 11 treasure-laden ships that set sail from Havana in July 1715. Tragically, the fleet encountered a catastrophic hurricane off the coast of Florida, resulting in the wreck of all but one vessel. The disaster scattered immense quantities of gold, silver, and other treasures along the Florida coastline, much of which lay undisturbed for centuries. Rediscovered in the 20th century, these shipwrecks, including coins like the Colombia 2 Escudos, offer a tangible link to the maritime, colonial, and economic history of Spain’s empire.The Numismatic Legacy This Colombia 2 Escudos coin represents a convergence of history: minted during a transitional period at the tail end of Charles II’s reign, it later became part of the legendary 1715 Fleet. Its exceptional preservation, from the centered cross to its readable legends, embodies the rich narrative of early modern Spain, from royal succession disputes to the perilous treasure voyages across the Atlantic. Such artifacts not only provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the era but also serve as enduring symbols of the geopolitical and economic challenges of the Spanish empire during one of its most tumultuous periods. This version adds historical depth to both Charles II’s reign and the story of the 1715 Fleet while maintaining focus on the coin's numismatic appeal.

Price: 9950 USD

Location: La Jolla, California

End Time: 2025-01-13T01:44:21.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD