A shipwreck probably dating as far back as the 18th century has been discovered by U.S. marine scientists off the coast of North Carolina.

In the research expedition, scientists from Duke University, North Carolina State University and the University of Oregon used a sonar and robotic underwater vehicle and discovered the marine relic buried mile-deep in the waters, as per the NYC Today.

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During the study, researchers discovered artifacts including glass bottles, iron chain, an unglazed pottery jug and navigational equipment such as a metal compass.

Archaeologists who were tasked to examine pictures of the artifacts said the wreck apparently dates back as far as the late 18th or early 19th century, during the time of the American Revolution when the United States was expanding trade with the rest of the globe by sea. Such find would reportedly be very rare, Daily Times Gazette reported.

 "This is an exciting find, and a vivid reminder that even with major advances in our ability to access and explore the ocean, the deep sea holds its secrets close," Cindy Van Dover, director of the Duke University Marine Laboratory, said in a statement.

Van Dover noted in the press release that she had previously led four expeditions to the same site during as early as 2012 and had no idea the underwater wreckage was there the whole time.

 "It's ironic to think we were exploring within 100 meters of the wreck site without an inkling it was there," she explained.

 "Our accidental find illustrates the rewards - and the challenge and uncertainty - of working in the deep ocean. We discovered a shipwreck but, ironically, the lost mooring was never found," Van Dover added.

Meanwhile, Director of Marine Heritage Program James Delgado noted that the wreck sits around 150 miles offshore along the Gulf Stream, a path that sailors have used for centuries between North American ports, the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and South America, Pioneer News has learned.

During a phone interview, Delgado said that the wreckage could provide important information about trade by the U.S. back in early the days. According to him, many ships have wrecked off along the Carolina coast over the years, but few have been discovered since working at extreme depths are quite challenging.

"The find is exciting, but not unexpected. Violent storms sent down large numbers of vessels off the Carolina coasts, but few have been located because of the difficulties of depth and working in an offshore environment," said Delgado.

TagsShipwreck, American Revolution, Trade, Marine