In the key west community, one would get labeled as having a Key West Dog Tag when a pieces of eight set in a silver or gold charm from the Atocha or other Spanish shipwreck is worn around one’s neck.
The Atocha Story
1. The Shipwreck (1622)
On
September 6, 1622, the Spanish treasure ship Nuestra Señora de Atocha, part of King Philip IV’s Tierra Firme Fleet, sank in a powerful hurricane near the
Florida Keys. About 260 people died, and massive amounts of silver, gold, and other valuables were lost.
2. The Lost Treasure
The ship was carrying over 1,000 silver bars, along with gold and other
precious cargo. Most of the treasure belonged to private individuals. About four tons were royal tax revenue, and 133 silver bars were packed in 34 boxes marked with the red crown of King Philip IV.
3. The Discovery (1985)
After more than 350 years of failed search attempts, the wreck was finally located on
July 20, 1985, by Mel Fisher of Treasure Salvors, Inc., who discovered a large portion of the silver cargo and part of the ship’s lower hull.
