Pirate shipwreck gold goes on display

One of the largest ever hoards of gold and jewellery discovered on a shipwreck off the Devon coast is to go on display at the British Museum.

It is thought the ship was sunk off Salcombe during the 17th century after being attacked by pirates hunting white slaves. . .

It is believed the vessel was used by pirates who raided the coastline for white slaves to sell in North Africa. . .

Archaeologists are puzzled by the mixture of European items and gold coins from Morocco and how a vessel containing one of the largest ever seabed finds came to be in waters off Salcombe.

The gold goes on display next week and divers will continue their hunt for further relics later in the year.

From the BBC, which will also be broadcasting a documentary on the wreck this Friday.

Posted by David on January 8, 2003 10:39 PM