Delving into the Deep: 13 Astonishing (& Valuable) Undersea Treasures That Will Amaze You.
8. The Captain
Current Estimated Value: $1 million (1938 Haul)
Year Lost: 1733
Found in: 1938 (Re-Salvaging)
The Capitana, part of the West Indies Fleet, met its fate in 1733 and was lost to the depths of the ocean for over two centuries. In 1938, a significant re-salvaging operation led to the discovery of three ships from this historic fleet, including the illustrious Capitana. From 1566 to 1790, the Capitana and her convoy regularly traversed the Atlantic, delivering valuable goods to Spanish colonies. These ships were vital conduits of trade, transporting not only Spanish products but also an array of luxury items such as sugar, silk, tobacco, spices, pearls, and precious metals, which were highly sought after in Europe.
The story of the Capitana is a fascinating glimpse into the rich maritime history of trade and exploration during the colonial era. With an estimated value of $1 million based on the 1938 haul, the ship represents not just a substantial financial asset but also a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. The recovery of the Capitana and her sister ships highlights the enduring allure of sunken vessels and the treasures they may hold. As researchers continue to study these artifacts, they deepen our understanding of the economic exchanges that shaped the world during the Age of Exploration, ensuring that the legacy of the Capitana lives on.
The Capitana, also known as El Rubi, met a tragic fate during a powerful hurricane in 1733. The storm forced the ship aground near Upper Matecumbe Key, leading to its immediate sinking. While the crew perished in the disaster, the riches aboard the vessel remained tantalizingly hidden beneath the waves. Over the years, divers braved the treacherous waters to retrieve some of the wealth, but it wasn’t until 1938 that salvage crews returned to search for the remaining treasure. This extensive recovery operation lasted over a decade, revealing a remarkable bounty that included 110 silver buttons and coins, 52 gold coins, and an impressive 40 feet of gold chains.
The story of the Capitana is a compelling narrative of loss, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of treasure. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding its sinking, the ship’s legacy endures through the wealth that was eventually recovered. The artifacts retrieved not only represent significant monetary value but also provide a window into the maritime trade and cultural exchanges of the 18th century. As underwater archaeology continues to evolve, the Capitana serves as a poignant reminder of the mysteries that lie beneath the ocean's surface, waiting to be uncovered and celebrated for their historical significance.
