Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
When it comes to tracking down buried treasure most of us think of adventure, ancient X-marked
maps, maybe pirates. But for one couple all it took was a casual stroll with their dog.
A Northern California couple was walking their dog last year when they came across a rusty
can partially uncovered by erosion in the shadow of a tree. (Via Kagin's, Inc.)
According to ABC when they opened it, and several other cans found in the same area,
they were in for the surprise of a lifetime — more than 1,400 gold coins dating back
to the 19th century and believed to be worth around $10 million.
As the San Francisco Chronicle reports the coins were dated between 1847 and 1894 and
appeared to be in nearly perfect condition. It quotes a coin dealer helping the couple
evaluate the find saying ...
"You look at these coins, and you see history. They are the Gold Rush, murders in the mountains,
buried treasures, the Wild West, everything of that time. And it's all right here before
you. You can hold it in your hands. Amazing."
But the history of these specific coins is still up in the air. Those examining the find
don't believe them to be a stash from a robbery. More likely, they were placed there over time
— as each canister was filled with coins from around the same time period before moving
on to the next.
Now according to experts the actual face value of the coins is just under $28,000, but due
to the rarity of the coins, it is believed they could sell for close to $10 million.
The couple, who has chosen to remain anonymous for fear of a modern day gold rush on their
property, says they will sell many of the coins and hold onto others as keepsakes. They
say they will use the money they make from the coins to pay bills and donate to local
charities.
The find is one of the biggest buried treasure finds in recent American history. A previous
large stash was discovered by construction workers in Jackson, Tennessee in 1985. It
had a face value of $4,500 and sold for $1 million.