The first comprehensive illustrated guide to ships lost at sea and the treasures they have yielded, capturing the romance and the risks of treasure hunting. From Roman ships laden with bronze statues to the gold--carrying blockade runners of World War II, this highly illustrated historical atlas is the first comprehensive guide to ships lost at sea and the treasures that have yielded. Tales of shipwrecks. The Atlas features spellbinding accounts of 40 of the most significant shipwrecks of all time. These accounts reveal how and why the ships sank and describe the often extraordinary feats of salvage accomplished through the centuries. There are tales of Chinese junks lost in the shark--infested waters of the South China Sea; of Spanish galleons laden with jewels; of prospectors in pursuit of gold around the world. Salvaged treasure. The Atlas is sumptuously illustrated with photographs of treasure salvaged from the wrecks, including rare coins, precious porcelain, finely crafted jewelry, and even mercury. Illustrations of diving equipment through the ages explain the development of salvage and underwater archaeology. Exquisite thematic maps. Beautiful hand--drawn maps illustrate the seas and oceans of the world during the different historical periods. They highlight the trade routes and ports of an era, detail the cargoes carried, show the notorious black holes that have bedeviled shipping, and plot the positions of some of the most remarkable shipwrecks. Comprehensive gazetteer. Twenty full--color maps plot the sites of over 1,400 wrecks around the world, showing the depths at which they lie. Accompanying profiles give details of the date on which each ship went down, its cargo, and any salvage attempts so far. Many of the wrecks still lie there on the ocean bed, their treasure awaiting recovery. Expertly researched and lavishly illustrated, this outstanding world history of shipwrecks will fire the imagination of everyone who is drawn to the risks and romance of treasure hunting.