1702 Meresteijn (Merestein) Shipwreck Silver Coins - Dutch East India Company (VOC)

Rare and Priceless Historical Coin Display - Dutch East Indiaman "Meresteijn" Shipwreck Recovery (1702) - Recovered 1976

Description: A stunning piece of maritime and numismatic history: an original display featuring six silver coins salvaged at great effort from the wreck of the Meresteijn, a Dutch East Indiaman ship that was wrecked off Jutten Island, Saldanha Bay, South Africa, on 3 April 1702.

This beautifully mounted display, created in 1976 by W.R. Cleland and G.S. Chowles**, showcases six authentic shipwreck coins, professionally preserved behind glass on a varnished wood plaque. The plaque is engraved with key historical details about the Meresteijn and includes original Latin inscriptions from the coins themselves.

**Godfrey S. Chowles: A prominent South African diver renowned for his significant contributions to maritime salvage operations, particularly the recovery of treasures from the Dutch East Indiaman Meresteijn, which sank off Jutten Island near Saldanha Bay in 1702. One remarkable story about Chowles involves a unique transaction where he purportedly purchased a house using silver coins salvaged from the Meresteijn. This event is believed to be one of the first instances in South Africa where a property was acquired using ancient shipwreck treasure. Pretty unique, right? 

Details:

• Coins: Six 17th-century silver coins

• Origin: Dutch East India Company (VOC) Meresteijn shipwreck

• Date of Wreck: 3 April 1702

• Recovery Date: 1976

• Recovered by: W.R. Cleland and G.S. Chowles

• Display Size: Approx. 48 x 30 cm

• Materials: Varnished wood, felt backing for coins, protective glass cover

Condition:
Coins and display are in excellent vintage condition. Wood has a rich patina, minor natural aging marks, adding character to the piece. Coins are secure, legible, and beautifully presented.

Provenance:
Recovered directly from the Meresteijn wreck site at Jutten Island, certified by the original recoverers.

A rare and valuable find for:

• Collectors of shipwreck coins

• Maritime history enthusiasts

• Museum displays

• Unique investment pieces

Don't miss out on owning a tangible piece of Dutch East India Company history!