Treasure Hunter Uncovers Rare Spanish Coin on Nantucket Beach

Treasure hunter Travis Nichols made a remarkable discovery on a beach in Nantucket, unearthing a rare 1782 Spanish one-reale coin. His find, reported on October 9, 2023, highlights the enduring allure of metal detecting and the historical treasures that can still be uncovered along the shores of this historic island.

Nichols, well-known in the local community for his dedication to helping others recover lost items, has a personal passion for historic coins. With a collection that exceeds 300 coins, he expressed immense satisfaction upon finding the silver piece, describing the moment as “an amazing feeling.”

In an interview with the Nantucket Inquirer and Mirror, Nichols noted that the coin likely originated from Mexico City, a fact he deduced from its markings. He emphasized the coin’s relatively recent origin, as other metal detectorists have discovered coins dating back to the 1650s in the region. “This coin came from Mexico City, somehow sailed to New England and then probably took another ship to Nantucket,” he said, pondering its journey and history.

Nichols’ find was made on a promising stretch of beach where he had previously unearthed a historic penny, albeit one clipped in half. “To think on Nantucket, a penny was too much money,” he remarked, reflecting on the island’s rich maritime past. He plans to continue combing the area for additional artifacts, stating, “It’s a popular beach spot. I’ve just got to see what else is there.”

This discovery aligns with a growing trend of significant finds by metal detectorists around the globe. Earlier this year, Marius Mangeac, a detectorist in Romania, located 1,469 ancient Roman coins, while a group in Poland unearthed pots filled with medieval artifacts and gold during a search for German V-2 rockets.

Nichols’ enthusiasm for metal detecting not only showcases his personal passion but also reflects the historical significance of Nantucket as a bustling seaport in the 1700s. The community continues to be intrigued by the historical narratives encapsulated in these discoveries, reinforcing the idea that history is often just beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered by those willing to search.