A QUANTITY OF SILVER RUPEES RECOVERED FROM THE 'TAJ MAHAL' WRECK, CEYLON, BY ARTHUR C. CLARKE, 1963

comprising a concreted group of seven with another seven loose examples, all dating from 1702-3; together with seven black and white photographs of artefacts recovered and a press cutting describing the haul

(a lot)

Provenance: William MacQuitty and thence by descent.

Arthur C. Clarke (1917-2008) the famous science fiction author was a keen amateur diver and friend of film producer William MacQuitty (1905-2004) to whom he gave this small haul of specie. At the time he suggested the wreck might be of H.M.S. Bedford but this was quickly dismissed in favour of an Indian trader now known as the 'Taj Mahal' wreck as the coins were minted during the reign of the Mogul Emperor Aurangzeb, builder of the famous monument to his wife. Clarke, who had moved to Ceylon for the climate, discovered 1000's of rupees scattered over the Great Basses Reef, some still in the form of the bags they had been contained in with some being donated to the Smithsonian.

Condition Report

As viewed.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.