Diver finds $1 million in 300-year-old gold coins off Florida coast
The treasure-hunting Schmitt family found 51 gold coins — including a rare 1715 "royal" minted for the king of Spain — and a 12-metre gold chain. (Photo courtesy of 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels, LLC)
A family of treasure hunters is rolling in wealth after they discovered a 300-year-old Spanish treasure from a shipwreck off the coast of Florida.
The company that hired them said the find includes 51 incredibly rare gold coins, 12 metres (40 feet) of ornate gold chain and a single coin called "Tricentennial Royal," made for then King Felipe V.This piece alone is worth approximately $500,000 due to its rarity and near-perfect condition, according to the firm.
“The treasure was actually found a month ago,” said Brent Brisben of 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels LLC, the company that hired the divers. “Keeping the news under wraps was “particularly hard for the family that found it. They’ve been beside themselves,” he told Florida Today.
All the pieces are in very good condition, Brisben added.
"One of the most amazing recoveries in 1715 Fleet History. Congratulations to the entire Schmitt family and the crew of the Aarrr Booty," the company said in a Facebook post.
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