Silver Coins detected with Ground Scanner Rover C II in the Sechura Desert (Peru)

Detected with OKM Rover C II New Edition (2009-2017)
Depth: 0.6 m (2.0 ft)
Region: Sechura Desert, Peru
Time of origin: 16th century


We are excited to share a remarkable discovery from one of our customers — a beautiful numismatic treasure that feels like a direct message from the 16th century. Several silver coins, identified as Spanish Dollars, were uncovered in northern Peru using the ground scanner OKM Rover C II. These pieces are not just old currency. They are witnesses to early monetary reforms that shaped the foundations of today’s world currencies. Finding them feels like holding history in your hands.

Reverse of the silver coin
Reverse of the silver coin: The coat of arms of Castile displays two lions and two castles, divided by a cross and surrounded by the inscription ‘ET INDIARVM REX’. Dating back to around 1580, this Spanish Dollar is an impressive find — especially in such well preserved condition. Perfect motifs like this are rarely found today.

Pieces of Eight: The Basic Concept of World Currencies

This find is numismatically fascinating for so many reasons. Spanish Dollars were once a dominant global trade currency, circulating across continents long before modern banking existed. Their influence can still be seen in the name and structure of the modern dollar. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Peru and Mexico’s vast silver deposits transformed the Spanish Empire into an economic powerhouse, kicking off early currency reforms that echoed around the world.

One of the most iconic coins of that era was the “Piece of Eight” — named because it could be physically cut into smaller pieces or “bits.” That simple idea survives today in the way we divide currency values: think quarters, halves and whole dollars. Finding one of these coins in the desert of Peru feels like discovering the blueprint of global money.

Treasure Hunters’ Serendipity and OKM’s Technical Expertise

The multi purpose metal detector Rover C II has a reputation for seeing what other tools overlook. Its powerful performance allowed it to detect these silver coins hidden roughly 60 cm (1.97 ft) deep in the Sechura Desert — deeper than most conventional detectors can reach.

The 3D ground scanner Rover C II blends metal detection with geo electrical measurement to:

These abilities make it a true companion for treasure hunters who want more than simple surface finds. It helps you go deeper — literally and figuratively.

Simplify your Treasure Hunting Experience

If you love treasure hunting but want something easier to use and more versatile, OKM created the perfect successor. The Rover C4 takes everything that made the Rover C II special and elevates it with new features. It combines a metal detector, ground scanner and 3D visualizer into one smooth experience. More power. More practicality. More success.

Treasure hunters' favorite Ground Scanner Rover C4 OKM Rover C4

OKM Rover C4

Gold Detector and Absolute Favorite for Treasure Hunting
  • combines ground scanner, pinpointer, mineral scanner and magnetometer
  • offers a multilingual interface and modern touch screen
  • stores your scans with a built in memory function
  • enables wireless transfer of your measurement data
  • reaches impressive depths with the Super Sensor
  • clearly identifies and localizes treasure targets
  • visualizes finds instantly with LED orbit technology
  • allows precise size calculations through 3D Visualizer

Share your Success Stories with OKM

If you are a treasure hunter, archaeologist, historian or passionate detectorist, we would love to hear from you. Your discoveries — whether small, surprising or truly extraordinary — help inspire countless others in the community. Do not hesitate to share your story with us. Every find has a story worth telling.

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FAQ

How old are the Spanish Dollars found in Peru?

The coins are from the late 16th century, around 1580, during the height of the Spanish Empire’s silver production.

Why are these coins called Pieces of Eight?

Because they could be physically cut into eight smaller pieces or “bits,” which influenced the way we divide currency today.

How deep can the Rover C II detect?

It can detect metal objects and cavities at depths many standard detectors cannot reach. In this case, the coins were found around 60 cm deep.

Is the Rover C II still available?

No, it has been replaced by the more advanced and user friendly Rover C4.

What makes the Rover C4 better?

It combines multiple detection technologies into one device, includes modern features like LED orbit visualization and offers deeper, more accurate scanning results.



Get Rewarded for Your Treasure Finds

You have also made discoveries and detected amazing artifacts and would like to share them (anonymously)? We look forward to reading and publishing your success stories!


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