269 - Group of three Spanish Colonial marine salvage artifacts associated with the 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet shipwreck. The group includes a pewter drinking vessel, a miniature glass bottle, and a heavily encrusted rectangular object. The pewter vessel features a cylindrical body with a single scroll-shaped handle and a slightly flared foot. Its surface is dark gray with extensive oxidation and pitting. The clear glass bottle is mold-blown with visible vertical seams on the sides, a short neck, and a wide flared rim. The base is smooth and slightly recessed. The third item is a rectangular metal object completely covered in thick marine calcification and patches of reddish coralline algae, with a hollow metal structure visible at one end. Largest: 7" L x 2 3/4" W x 2" H. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Group of three Spanish Colonial marine salvage artifacts associated with the 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet shipwreck. The group includes a pewter drinking vessel, a miniature glass bottle, and a heavily encrusted rectangular object. The pewter vessel features a cylindrical body with a single scroll-shaped handle and a slightly flared foot. Its surface is dark gray with extensive oxidation and pitting. The clear glass bottle is mold-blown with visible vertical seams on the sides, a short neck, and a wide flared rim. The base is smooth and slightly recessed. The third item is a rectangular metal object completely covered in thick marine calcification and patches of reddish coralline algae, with a hollow metal structure visible at one end. Largest: 7" L x 2 3/4" W x 2" H. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation. Proceeds from the Peter Benchley Collection will benefit five ocean conservation organizations: Peter Benchley Ocean Awards, WildAid, Beneath the Waves, Blue Frontier and Environmental Defense Fund. CONDITION: Pewter vessel displays heavy oxidation, pitting, and scattered rust-colored spots, with a half-inch vertical stress crack at the rim. Glass bottle has a vertical crack from the rim through the shoulder, internal clouding, and surface scratches. Rectangular object is completely covered in marine encrustations. NOTICE TO BIDDERS: The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition. Photos are considered part of the condition report. Complete condition information is available by request, please request no later than 24 hours prior to the auction. All lots are offered and sold "as is", and Willow Auctions will not provide refunds based on condition. Timepiece movements, lighting and electrics have not been tested, and art has not been examined out of the frame unless otherwise stated.