The S.S. Tilawa, sometimes referred to as the “Indian Titanic,” was tragically lost during World War II. The ship was on its way from Bombay, India, to Durban, South Africa, when it was struck by Japanese torpedoes, sending it and 2,364 silver bars to the bottom of the Indian Ocean. In 2017, nearly 60 tons of silver were recovered from the wreck in a controversial salvage operation. Now, you can own a piece of this fascinating history with the 1 oz Silver S.S. Tilawa Shipwreck Round, available online at Provident Metals.

Highlights:

• Ships in a protective plastic flip, a tube of 20, or a box of 500!
• Crafted from silver recovered from the S.S. Tilawa!
• Unique Tilawa Shipwreck Silver!
• Contains 1 Troy oz of .999 pure silver.
• The obverse shows the Tilawa with a map outlining its course.
• The reverse depicts the S.S. Tilawa sailing in the Indian Ocean.

Each of these 1 oz Silver S.S. Tilawa Shipwreck Rounds is securely packaged in a plastic flip, a tube of 20, or a box of 500. The silver used in these rounds was salvaged from the S.S. Tilawa in 2017. After a long legal battle over the rights to this silver, it has been refined and struck into these special commemorative pieces.

Obverse

The obverse of the Silver S.S. Tilawa Shipwreck Round features an aerial depiction of the ship, with a map showing its intended course from India to South Africa. The calm seas and clear skies depicted contrast with the tragic outcome of the voyage. The inscriptions on this side include BOMBAY TO DURBAN and 1 OZ 999 FINE SILVER.

Reverse

On the reverse side of the 1 oz Silver S.S. Tilawa Shipwreck Round, there is a powerful image of the ship navigating the Indian Ocean. This view, from the stern of the ship, is reminiscent of the final moments before the Japanese torpedoes struck on November 23, 1942, sinking the vessel. Inscriptions here include S.S. TILAWA.

History

In November 1942, the S.S. Tilawa set out on a voyage from what is now Mumbai, India, to Durban, South Africa. Onboard was a cargo of silver intended for the South African Mint, which was to be used for minting coins for both South Africa and Egypt.

Ordering

Shipwreck silver like this offers a unique connection to history, making it a rare and special addition to any collection. If you have any questions about these silver rounds, please feel free to ask. Provident Metals customer service is available at 1-800-313-3315, online using our web chat, and via our email address.