Pirate coins

Pirate coins, often romanticized in popular culture, played a significant role in the economy of piracy during the Golden Age of Piracy, which spanned from the late 17th century to the early 18th century. These coins were not a specific type or brand of currency but rather encompassed any form of currency or coinage plundered from ships, coastal settlements, and towns by pirates.

History

The Golden Age of Piracy saw pirates operating in the Caribbean, along the American East Coast, the West African coast, and the Indian Ocean. The coins they accumulated came from various nations, including Spanish doubloons, English guineas, French livres, and Dutch guilders. The value of these coins was determined by their weight and the purity of the metal, typically gold or silver.

Types of Pirate Coins

• Doubloons: Originating from Spain, these were among the most coveted pirate treasures. Made of gold, doubloons were a common target for pirates.
• Pieces of Eight: Also known as Spanish dollars, these silver coins were widely used in international trade.
• Guineas: British gold coins that were also targeted by pirates for their high gold content.
• Livres: French coins, which included both silver and gold varieties, were part of the loot captured by pirates.

Usage

Pirate coins were used by pirates for various purposes. Primarily, they served as the primary means of exchange among pirates and were used to purchase supplies, pay crew members, and indulge in luxuries in pirate havens and friendly ports. Additionally, these coins were often melted down and converted into pirate jewelry or hidden as part of pirate treasure.

Cultural Significance

The fascination with pirate coins has transcended history, becoming emblematic of the pirate lifestyle in books, movies, and other forms of media. They symbolize adventure, treasure hunting, and the rebellious spirit associated with piracy.

Preservation and Collecting

Today, pirate coins are highly sought after by collectors and historians. They are considered valuable artifacts that provide insight into the economic systems of the past and the lives of pirates. Authentic pirate coins can be found in museums, private collections, and occasionally in auction houses.

See Also

• Piracy
• Treasure map
• Golden Age of Piracy
• Shipwreck treasure