It has been nearly 400 years since da Gama’s royal treasure was lost to the ocean. The spectacular cargo of silver treasure mostly from King Philip III of Portugal was on board the São José during her last mission in 1622. Also in the fleet was the newly appointed viceroy of India, Francisco da Gama, great grandson of legendary Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. As the São José was passing the coast of Mozambique, she was attacked by an Anglo-Dutch fleet of ships. Following a valiant battle, the proud Almiranta ultimately met her demise on a reef off the coast of Mozambique. After its recent amazing discovery and recovery, and for the first time ever, the royal coins from the São José are now available to the public.

Each coin from the São José comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is certified by NGC. These coins have been certified with the coin’s denomination, country of origin and shipwreck effect grading. Also, the coin is accompanied by a high gloss presentation case with silver “São José” Logo on the top cover and inside. The coins are kept within the box in an impressive magnetic rising insert.

Below is an example of a Mexico 4 Reales cob coin containing nearly full detail and is one of the finest examples recovered from the São José shipwreck site. This image is for visual reference only and exhibits the unique and intricate details of what these historic coins looked like more than 400 years ago as each was struck and shaped by hand.