Bank note recovered from the Andrea Doria
A Sunken Treasure’s Journey: The Banco di Roma Safe from the Andrea Doria
On August 27, 1981, amidst Hurricane Dennis, marine explorer Peter Gimble led a daring expedition. Their mission: to recover the Banco di Roma (Bank of Rome) safe from 250 feet beneath the Atlantic Ocean. This safe, which had rested for a quarter of a century, was believed to hold treasures of First Class passengers from the ill-fated Andrea Doria.
The Andrea Doria: A Tragic Tale of Collision and Sinking
In 1956, the elegant ocean liner Andrea Doria collided with the MS Stockholm off Nantucket, Massachusetts. As a result, the Andrea Doria swiftly sank, preserving the stories and possessions of those on board in an underwater time capsule.
The Safe’s Elusive Contents
For decades, the 650-pound Banco di Roma safe remained a tantalizing mystery. Rumors suggested it contained opulent jewelry and valuables of elite passengers. However, during a live television broadcast on August 3, 1984, the safe revealed stacks of U.S. $1 Silver Certificates and Italian banknotes in 50, 100, and 1,000 Lire denominations instead of glittering jewels.
Preservation and Legacy
Peter Gimble and his wife, actress and diver Elga Andersen, preserved some of the recovered notes in specially-made Lucite holders. Through their efforts, the legacy of the Andrea Doria continues to live on for generations.
A Glimpse into Maritime History
The recovery of the Banco di Roma safe from the Andrea Doria is a testament to human determination and the allure of maritime mysteries. Furthermore, it offers a unique glimpse into the lives and stories of those who embarked on this ill-fated voyage.
Exploring the Depths of the Ocean and History
For divers, historians, and treasure enthusiasts, the Andrea Doria’s legacy continues to beckon. Indeed, the recovery of the safe and its contents serves as a reminder that beneath the ocean’s surface lies a world of wonder and intrigue, waiting to be explored.
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