San Salvador Challenge Coin

A beautiful 1.5-inch hand-painted brass coin honoring the San Salvador. Commanded by Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, San Salvador entered what is now San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542, during an expedition north from Mexico in search of new trade routes and opportunities for the Spanish Empire. She is recognized as the first recorded European vessel to explore the California coast, surveying harbors and making contact with Indigenous peoples along the way.

Because of this voyage, San Salvador is often regarded as the founding ship of San Diego and an early symbol in the history of California, much like the Mayflower is associated with New England. Her story marks the beginning of recorded European exploration along the West Coast and represents a shared, complex heritage for California’s peoples, past and present.

Recognizing her historical significance, the Maritime Museum of San Diego undertook the construction of a historically informed replica. Built at Spanish Landing on San Diego Bay, the replica was completed and launched in 2015. Today, she serves not just as a dockside exhibit, but as a fully functional sailing vessel.

Homeported in San Diego, the replica San Salvador sails along the California coast, visiting ports and serving as a floating educational platform that brings maritime history to life for students and the public.

These coins are my original designs and are available exclusively through me. If you come across them at the Maritime Museum of San Diego or through other sellers, please know I am the designer, supplier, and drop shipper behind every one.

OPTIONAL: Our Air-Tite acrylic cases provide the ultimate long-term protection for your coin. They are made of crystal clear, hard Acrylic and will never yellow over time; the foam rings are made of Volara and both are free of PVC that could damage your coin.