Chicago firm returns coins from 1850 ship wreck to U.S. Navy

CHICAGO (WGN) – A Chicago firm specializing in rare coins, antiquities and historical artifacts has returned looted coins from the wreck of the USS Yorktown (1839) to the U.S. Navy.

A news release said the coins were uncovered in 2024 as part of a large estate purchase made by Chicago firm Harlan J. Berk, Ltd (HJB).

After conducting further research, HJB identified the coins as part of a trove looted in 2000 from the USS Yorktown wreck, located off the coast of Africa, according to officials.

HJB said the USS Yorktown played a key role in anti-slavery patrols and sank off Cape Verde in 1850 after it struck a reef. No lives were lost, but the ship’s stores and equipment all sank with the vessel.

After confirming the coins’ illicit origin, HJB contacted the U.S. Navy History and Heritage Command and arranged for their return.

“Harlan J. Berk, Ltd. extends its sincere gratitude to the U.S. Navy History and Heritage
Command for its collaboration and dedication to safeguarding the legacy of the USS Yorktown,” HJB said in a statement. “Thanks to their efforts, these historic coins will now be preserved for the education and appreciation of future generations.”