Florida: A team of divers has made a historic discovery off the coast of Florida, unearthing a Spanish treasure worth nearly $1 million (approx. ₹8.3 crore) from beneath the ocean floor. The find includes over 1,000 gold and silver coins, believed to be more than three centuries old.
Linked to the 1715 Spanish Fleet Disaster
Experts have confirmed that the treasure dates back to 1715, when a Spanish fleet carrying precious metals, jewels and goods to Spain was destroyed by a massive hurricane. The ships sank near the Florida coast, creating what is now famously known as the “Treasure Coast.”
Historians say the coins reflect the Golden Age of the Spanish Empire. Remarkably, many coins still display mint marks and dates, offering valuable insight into colonial trade, maritime history and minting techniques of the 18th century.
How the Treasure Was Found
The search operation was led by Queen Jewels Company. Team leader Sal Guttoso revealed that months of preparation went into the mission. Divers used underwater metal detectors and hand tools to carefully remove sand and recover the artifacts.
“This is more than treasure hunting,” Guttoso said. “Each coin carries a story. It’s a piece of history brought back to life.”
Florida – A Hotspot of Sunken Riches
Florida’s coastline has yielded several Spanish treasures in the past, as it once lay along a major trade route between Spain and its American colonies. Ships often carried gold, silver, gemstones and spices, making the region a prime site for maritime archaeology.
Who Owns the Treasure?
According to Florida state law, any treasure recovered from the sea belongs to the state government. Recovery teams are granted search rights and are rewarded through compensation or a percentage of the value.
Additionally, 20% of historical artifacts are preserved in museums for research and public display. The state and the archaeology department are now working to secure, document, and preserve the newly discovered treasure.
This breathtaking discovery not only revives a 300-year-old maritime mystery but also opens a new chapter in the exploration of the world’s sunken heritage.
