1808 East India Company – 10 Cash Coin (Madras Presidency)
Recovered from the 1809 Admiral Gardner Shipwreck – NGC Shipwreck Certified This copper 10 Cash coin, struck in 1808 for the East India Company’s Madras Presidency, is a remarkable survivor of maritime history. Minted during British colonial rule in India, these coins were intended for use in southeastern India as part of a standardized currency system introduced by the East India Company. The obverse bears the East India Company’s coat of arms: a shield flanked by two rampant lions, topped by a flag-bearing lion, and surrounded by the inscription EAST INDIA COMPANY and the date 1808. These coins were among the first mass-produced coinages created specifically for Company territories in India. What makes this particular example exceptional is its provenance. It was lost in the wreck of the Admiral Gardner, a British East Indiaman that sank in the early hours of January 25, 1809, during a violent storm in the English Channel off the Goodwin Sands. The ship, bound for India, was carrying a large cargo of trade goods, armaments, and official East India Company coinage—including thousands of copper 10 Cash coins destined for use in the Madras Presidency. Despite its location being relatively close to shore, the wreck was inaccessible due to treacherous waters and shifting sands, and the cargo was lost to the depths for nearly two centuries. The Admiral Gardner's cargo—and the coins it carried—remained undisturbed until the wreck was rediscovered in 1985by a team of licensed divers. Subsequent salvage operations recovered thousands of coins, many still tightly packed in barrels as they had been loaded in 1809. Remarkably well-preserved due to the low-oxygen environment of the sand-covered wreck site, the recovered coins were authenticated and certified by numismatic authorities, including NGC, with formal shipwreck certification confirming their origin. For collectors, coins recovered from the Admiral Gardner represent more than just currency—they are tangible artifacts of British colonial expansion, maritime trade, and naval disaster. Each piece tells a story of empire, loss, and recovery, tying numismatics directly to historical events. The 10 Cash coin, while common in its time, is elevated by its connection to this historic shipwreck, and remains one of the most sought-after examples of shipwreck-certified colonial coinage. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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