Silver Bullion

The SS Republic’s story is about tragedy, discovery, and numismatic wonder. This Civil War-era steamship, lost in 1865 off the coast of Georgia, carried a fortune in gold and silver coins. Among its treasures were half-dollar silver, remarkably preserved despite spending more than a century beneath the ocean. A Shipwreck’s Silver Treasure—these coins link to America's past. Furthermore, it reflects the artistry, commerce, and resilience of the mid-19th century.

The Fateful Journey of the SS Republic

The SS Republic left New York on October 18, 1865. Its destination was New Orleans, carrying

Early Life and Rise to the Throne

Queen Victoria of the British Empire was born on May 24, 1819, at Kensington Palace in London. She was the daughter of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. As the niece of King William IV, Victoria unexpectedly ascended the throne in June 1837 at just 18 years old. Her reign would become the longest of any British monarch at the time, spanning an impressive 63 years.

From the beginning, Victoria brought the monarchy a new sense of purpose and stability. Though young and inexperienced, she worked closely with her advisors. Additionally, she established herself as a capable and determined leader. Moreover, her marriage to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840 significantly shaped her reign. Their partnership was one of mutual respect and shared vision, laying the foundation for many of the

The Flowing Hair Silver Dollar of 1794

The year 1794 marked a milestone for the young United States. Additionally, the country was taking its first steps towards a national identity, not only politically but economically. Central to this endeavor was establishing a stable currency, a crucial aspect of independence. One coin stood out: the Flowing Hair Silver Dollar of 1794. This coin was the first silver dollar from the U.S. Mint and symbolized the nation’s early efforts in currency design.

Why the U.S. Needed Its Own Currency

After gaining independence from Britain, the United States struggled with currency instability. At the time, coins from various foreign nations circulated widely, creating confusion

Introduction

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced a profound period of rapid growth and transformation. Within this dynamic landscape emerged the story behind America's classic silver dollars. Explicitly, it reflected the spirit of innovation and progress that defined the era. This era, often referred to as the Gilded Age was characterized by significant industrialization, urbanization, and technological advancements. Subsequently, advancing into the Progressive Era.

The nation witnessed unprecedented economic expansion, driven by innovations in transportation, communication, and manufacturing. Immigrants flocked to American shores seeking opportunity, and cities burgeoned with diverse populations. As the country expanded westward, fueled by the completion of transcontinental railroads

The story of Pascual Esquerra's tragic tale of an ill-fated journey on the SS Central America is a remarkable one. Pascual Esquerra was an impressive Chilean and Spanish businessman whose life took an unexpected turn amidst the tempestuous seas. Esquerra's path led him to become a vital component of the unlucky SS Central America. Consequently, despite being born privileged in the picturesque villages of Valparaiso, Chile, huge misfortunes can occur to anyone. 

Majestic ship was pushed to its limits

On that fateful day of 9 September 1857, the SS Central America found itself entangled in the relentless grip of a Category 2 hurricane. In short, it was stuck off the coast of the Carolinas in an enormous storm. Buffeted by ferocious 105 mph winds and at the mercy of the treacherous seas. As a result, the once majestic ship was pushed to its limits.