The waters off the coast of Florida have yielded a thrilling, albeit illicit, treasure. Authorities have recovered 37 gold coins, each whispering tales of 18th-century Spanish galleons and a modern-day heist. These coins, part of a larger trove of over 100 coins initially discovered in 2015, are valued at over $1 million and represent a significant piece of Florida’s maritime history. The recovery concludes a fascinating investigation into a case of blatant disregard for historical preservation and the law.
The story begins with the 1715 Fleet, a Spanish armada carrying immense wealth – gold and silver plundered from the “New World” – back to Spain to fund its costly wars. In July 1715, a devastating hurricane off Florida’s coast sank 11 of the 12 ships, sending hundreds of sailors to watery graves and swallowing over $400 million worth of treasure. Three centuries later, the allure of this lost fortune continues to captivate, as evidenced by the recent actions of the Schmitt family and their company, Booty Salvage Inc.
In 2015, the Schmitts made headlines by announcing the discovery of 51 gold coins and a substantial length of gold chain – a treasure valued at over $1 million. However, this announcement concealed a darker secret: they had illegally withheld another 50 coins from their discovery. A joint investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the FBI uncovered a sophisticated scheme orchestrated by Eric Schmitt. Evidence revealed that he planted three of the purloined coins on the ocean floor in 2016 to lure investors, creating a false narrative of continued treasure discovery. Further investigation revealed the sale of several additional coins to auction houses and private individuals between 2023 and 2024.
Thanks to the meticulous work of the FWC and the FBI, 37 of the 50 stolen coins have been recovered. FWC Investigator Camille Soverel stated, “This case underscores the importance of safeguarding Florida’s rich cultural heritage and holding accountable those who seek to profit from its exploitation.” The recovered coins are slated to be returned to their rightful custodians, symbolizing a victory for historical preservation and the rule of law. However, the hunt isn’t over; the investigation continues to recover the remaining 13 missing coins. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to protect historical artifacts from those who would exploit them for personal gain, highlighting the delicate balance between exploration and preservation of our shared past. The depths of the ocean may conceal untold riches, but they also conceal a history waiting to be responsibly unearthed and protected.
