Nuestra Señora de La Luz - 4 Reales - Mounted in 18K Gold
$3,800
Denomination: 4 Reales
Date: 1745
Mint: Potosi
Reign: Phillip V
Weight: 12.4 gm
Mount: 18K gold
Description: Obverse: Clearly struck Jerusalem cross with lions and castles visible in 4 quadrants. Denomination four (4) visible. Some environmental wear but clearly visible Pillar and Waves. Denomination four (4) visible and long with date of 1745.
History: The Nuestra Señora de la Luz, a Spanish galleon, sank in a storm off the coast of Montevideo, Uruguay in 1752 while on route from Buenos Aires to Spain. The ship was carrying a large amount of gold and silver, and the wreck was discovered in 1992, with a significant portion of the treasure recovered and auctioned off. The Nuestra Señora de la Luz, meaning "Our Lady of Light," was laden with treasures, including gold and silver coins, ingots, and other valuable items. The La Luz was caught in a severe storm while anchored off the coast of Montevideo, Uruguay, and was driven onto the shoreline. The storm resulted in the loss of all hands aboard and the scattering of the ship's treasure over a wide area. The wreck of the La Luz was discovered in 1992. The recovered treasures were split between the Uruguayan government and the salvors. The coins were auctioned off in New York and Montevideo, with buyers having the option to purchase them in their original, uncleaned state or professionally cleaned. The Nuestra Señora de la Luz shipwreck is a reminder of the risks of 18th-century maritime trade and the allure of sunken treasures. The La Luz shipwreck provides a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century maritime trade and the challenges faced by sailors and merchants. The discovery and recovery of the treasure from the La Luz highlight the complexities of salvage rights and the historical significance of such finds.
La Luz
