290 - Assortment of various archaeological and geological specimens including items from the Eagle shipwreck. The collection features a large terracotta ceramic fragment, possibly the rim and shoulder of a storage vessel, with a thick rounded lip and flared body. A polished agate slice displays a dark reddish-brown exterior with a translucent gray-blue and white cloudy interior. The group includes a weathered animal bone fragment alongside two heavily encrusted concretions fused with sand and minerals, showing dark brown oxidation consistent with iron cores. A glass jar contains several calcified tubular fragments from the Eagle shipwreck, likely clay tobacco pipe stems, exhibiting varying degrees of staining. Largest piece: 3 1/4" H x 6 1/4" W x 4 1/2" D. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Assortment of various archaeological and geological specimens including items from the Eagle shipwreck. The collection features a large terracotta ceramic fragment, possibly the rim and shoulder of a storage vessel, with a thick rounded lip and flared body. A polished agate slice displays a dark reddish-brown exterior with a translucent gray-blue and white cloudy interior. The group includes a weathered animal bone fragment alongside two heavily encrusted concretions fused with sand and minerals, showing dark brown oxidation consistent with iron cores. A glass jar contains several calcified tubular fragments from the Eagle shipwreck, likely clay tobacco pipe stems, exhibiting varying degrees of staining. Largest piece: 3 1/4" H x 6 1/4" W x 4 1/2" D. 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: Items are in as-found, excavated condition consistent with marine recovery. The ceramic and bone specimens show significant surface calcification and encrustation. The metal-bearing concretions exhibit heavy oxidation and rust staining throughout. The agate slice appears stable with a smooth polished surface. The glass jar shows interior residue and dust, while the metal lid has minor surface scratches and localized oxidation. 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.