A curated vault for the metals of a submerged century
Maritime Anthology is a curated digital vault operated by Ontong Java Development Company Limited. It exists to present, verify, and transfer authentic seventeenth-century metallurgical artefacts recovered from the shipwrecks of the Ontong Java Atoll, in the Solomon Islands. The platform gathers an extraordinary consignment of iron and precious-metal bars — each bearing the marine concretion, surface inscriptions, and iridescent PGM signature of long submersion — and offers them to a confirmed acquiring public under a transparent, documented chain of custody.
The catalogue is built for historians, institutional collectors, and metallurgical researchers who require more than imagery: every piece carries an assay certificate, a recovery photograph, and an export permit, with the full archaeological dossier prepared on request ahead of acquisition. Visitors can read the recovery narrative, inspect the assay tables, and view high-fidelity lightbox plates of the cargo before submitting an enquiry or reserving a transfer through the Secure Vault.
Maritime Anthology is built and curated by Ontong Java Development Company Limited, the recovery body founded and led by Dr. Reginald Aipia — the discoverer of the atoll wreck site — working from Luaníua Village, on the Lord Howe Islands, in collaboration with the Solomon Islands National Museum and the Ministry of Culture & Tourism. The company holds the salvaging record for the site and is the sole authority behind the consignment presented here.
Verified Provenance
Every acquisition is documented under a numbered Certificate of Authenticity on record with the Solomon Islands Ministry of Culture & Tourism.
Independent Assay
Iron bars are assayed at the India Government Mint, Mumbai, with parallel analysis by the Materials Processing Institute, United Kingdom.
Authentic Recovery
All material is raised from the Ontong Java Atoll wreck site under a WWII Wrecks and War Relics licence issued by the SI National Museum.
Ontong Java Development Company Limited
The company holds the official discovery record for the atoll wreck site and manages every stage of the cargo — from underwater survey and dive recovery to wrapping, containerisation, assay, and certified transfer. Operations are carried out under the Protection of Wrecks and War Relics Act 1980.
Contact the Acquisition OfficeSolomon Islands Salvaged Precious Metal Rods
Integrated asset, assay and indicative valuation presentation. Prepared from supplied EGT and OJDC source documents · 14 August 2026 valuation benchmark.
Indicative valuations are metal-content benchmarks, not refinery settlements or sale offers.
Asset Provenance & Ownership Chain
EGT states ownership and control through its OJDC joint venture relationship.
Recovered Inventory Distribution
Distributed across Australia and the Solomon Islands · 140 MT stated as recovered / on ground
Assay Evidence
Multiple testing references support the case for precious-metal content.
Gold content stated at 0.12%–0.24% in the supplied EGT presentation.
Referenced value: US$150k–US$300k per metric tonne.
Extensive testing stated to use atomic spectrometry on a 7.48 MT lot.
Minimum platinum content cited at approximately 7 kg per metric tonne.
Source exhibits reference National Processing, Bureau Veritas and U-Malic documentation.
Rhodium and iridium are also identified in the supplied materials.
Evidence should be read with the underlying certificates, test methods, sample chain and stated limitations.
Indicative Contained-Metal Benchmark
Platinum and iridium account for almost all of the updated INR benchmark · 14 Aug 2026.
| Material | Quantity | Updated value (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum | 66,632.7991 g | 326,725,578.68 |
| Rhodium | 79.7183 g | 2,027,735.09 |
| Iridium | 2,333.2174 g | 56,859,976.21 |
| Titanium | 28,756.904 g | 22,178.88 |
| Gold | 85.5513 g | 1,059,527.06 |
| Silver | 1,316.0318 g | 230,412.32 |
| Iron scrap | 9,622,534.8 g | 343,838.27 |
Gross contained-metal benchmark. No deduction for refining, recovery, treatment, logistics, assay uncertainty, taxes or commercial discounts.
Important Qualifications
This presentation is based solely on information supplied by Evolution Global Trading Pte Ltd and associated source documents. It has not been independently verified.
All quantities, ownership statements, assay results, photographs and valuation inputs should be validated through legal, technical, customs, sampling and commercial due diligence.
Valuations are indicative gross contained-metal benchmarks. They assume 100% payable recovery and exclude refining, recovery, treatment, transport, insurance, taxes, duties, assay uncertainty and commercial discounts.
Nothing in this presentation constitutes a refinery settlement, binding offer, fair-value opinion, investment advice, representation, warranty or guarantee of recoverability or sale proceeds.
Prospective counterparties should rely on their own advisers and execute appropriate sampling, assay, title verification and transaction documentation before making any decision.
The Cost of Maritime Archaeology Recovery Services
Recovering historical treasures from beneath the waves is as thrilling as it is complex. But for collectors, museums, and researchers, one question looms large: what is the real cost of maritime archaeology recovery services? Understanding the expenses involved is crucial to avoid surprises and ensure your project stays afloat — both financially and legally.
Quick answer · The cost typically ranges from £25,000 to over £250,000 per project, depending on location, depth, artifact type, and required documentation. Prices reflect extensive planning, specialist equipment, and expert personnel needed for safe, legal underwater recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Project costs for maritime archaeology vary widely based on scale, site conditions, and recovery goals.
- Specialist services like artifact provenance documentation and metal assaying significantly impact overall pricing.
- Budgeting early and transparently helps control maritime archaeology expenses and avoid unexpected costs.
- Ontong Java Development Company Limited provides global expertise with affordable maritime archaeology services for collectors and researchers.
Understanding the Cost of Maritime Archaeology Recovery Services
What Drives Underwater Artifact Recovery Costs?
The overall price for maritime archaeology projects is shaped by a number of factors. Underwater site investigation costs UK and abroad depend on the project’s depth, the location’s remoteness, and the complexity of the shipwreck. For example, undertaking an archaeological excavation near Ontong Java Atoll, Solomon Islands may involve higher logistics costs due to transportation and the need for local permits.
Breakdown of Typical Maritime Archaeology Expenses
Major cost components include vessel hire, diving teams, specialist equipment (like ROVs and underwater metal detectors), and insurance. Additionally, artifact provenance services in the Solomon Islands and expert metal assaying services UK add to the final expense, but they are essential for legal sale and research value. Each project is unique, so a detailed quote is always recommended when asking, “how much do maritime archaeology services cost?”
Key Cost Factors for Underwater Archaeology Projects
Location and Accessibility
Projects off the Ontong Java Atoll or other remote sites tend to be more expensive due to the need for specialist crews and equipment transport. Urban or coastal sites, especially in the UK, may offer easier logistics but can still incur significant costs for permits and safety measures.
Artifact Type and Recovery Complexity
The nature and size of the artifacts being recovered — be it coins, cannons, or cargo — affect the required expertise and equipment. Metal detecting services in Ontong Java Atoll, for instance, are tailored to local conditions and artifact compositions, impacting both the pricing for maritime recovery services and the duration of the recovery phase.
Pricing for Maritime Recovery Services: What to Expect in 2026
Service Tiers and Typical Price Ranges
While every maritime archaeology project is different, Ontong Java Development Company Limited offers tiered pricing based on project scope. Here’s a general overview for 2026:
| Service Tier | Inclusions | Typical Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Survey | Site assessment, initial documentation | £25,000 – £50,000 |
| Standard Recovery | Artifact recovery, photo & video documentation, basic provenance | £70,000 – £150,000 |
| Comprehensive Recovery & Assaying | Full excavation, provenance, conservation, metal assaying | £180,000 – £250,000+ |
Budgeting for Maritime Archaeological Recovery
It’s wise to factor in a contingency fund — often 10–20% — as unexpected site conditions or regulatory requirements can arise. Transparent communication with your provider is key to keeping maritime archaeology expenses under control.
How Ontong Java Development Company Limited Adds Value
Global Expertise, Local Knowledge
Ontong Java Development Company Limited stands out by combining international standards with in-depth regional experience in locations such as Ontong Java Atoll, Solomon Islands. Their team navigates both local and international regulations, ensuring artifact recovery aligns with both ethical guidelines and legislation.
Comprehensive Service Offering
From artifact provenance services in the Solomon Islands to advanced metal assaying services UK, Ontong Java provides a complete solution. This integrated approach not only streamlines project management but also helps clients answer the crucial question: what is the price of artifact recovery? Their transparent, itemised quoting helps organisations budget effectively for expenses for maritime heritage preservation.
Reducing Costs Without Compromising Quality
Affordable Maritime Archaeology Services
Worried about the cost factors for underwater archaeology projects? Strategies like phased project delivery, remote site surveys, and pre-project feasibility studies can all help reduce initial outlay. Choosing an experienced provider ensures you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
Grants and Funding Sources
Many UK and international heritage bodies offer grants for maritime archaeology. It’s worth exploring options via the UK Government’s grants portal or the British Museum’s international archaeology programmes to help offset your project’s costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are cost estimates for maritime archaeology recovery?
Estimates are as accurate as the project information provided. Experienced firms like Ontong Java Development Company Limited factor in site surveys, logistics, and regulatory requirements to ensure as precise a quote as possible, but unforeseen challenges can impact final costs.
What are the main regulatory requirements for artifact recovery?
Regulations vary by country and site. Most projects require permits, environmental assessments, and adherence to UNESCO conventions. Ontong Java’s team manages the paperwork and compliance from the Solomon Islands to the UK and beyond.
Is metal assaying always included in maritime archaeology projects?
Not always. Metal assaying is included when the value or composition of recovered artifacts is a key concern, particularly for collectors or museums. It’s an optional service but highly recommended for provenance and valuation.
Can I reduce costs by using local resources?
Yes, employing local experts and equipment can help manage costs, especially in remote areas like Ontong Java Atoll. However, always ensure that local teams meet international standards to safeguard your investment and the artifacts themselves.
How long does a typical underwater artifact recovery take?
Projects can last from several weeks to over a year, depending on the site’s complexity and the number of artifacts being recovered. Early planning and clear objectives help speed up timelines and control underwater artifact recovery costs.
Whether you’re a seasoned researcher, an avid collector, or a museum curator, understanding the cost of maritime archaeology recovery services is essential for successful project planning. For expert guidance and transparent pricing — no matter where your shipwreck lies — contact Ontong Java Development Company Limited and let your next discovery begin.
