Mankind: The Story of All of Us (2012)

S1E8 Treasure

In the heart of the Andes, Spanish explorers establish the world’s largest silver mine, producing vast quantities of pesos de ocho (pieces of eight). This influx of silver revolutionizes the global economy, leading to a surge in wealth for pirates who eagerly seek out these precious coins. The mine not only enriches Spain but also fuels a new era of piracy, as treasure chests overflow with the valuable currency that influences trade routes worldwide.