A group of Florida-based treasure hunters recently made an incredible discovery, recovering hundreds of coins from a fleet of 300-year-old shipwrecks off the Atlantic coast this week. The excitement among the divers was palpable, with one describing the find as “almost numbing.” Boat captain Grant Gitschlag expressed his surprise, saying, “You don’t expect that. You always hope for it, but you never expect it.” Fellow treasure hunter Corinne Lea agreed that the discovery was unexpected but noted that this is often how the greatest finds come about.
The treasure hunters retrieved 214 coins and other artifacts from the Spanish shipwrecks known as the 1715 Treasure Fleet, which is a rare feat considering that these wrecks have been salvaged for decades. Gitschlag described the find as an exciting start, given the quantity of items recovered in just a few days. The group is currently working on cleaning the coins of 300 years of sea dust to restore their shine before heading back out to sea in search of more treasures.
The treasure hunters are contracted by Sal Guttuso, the owner of 1715 Fleet Queen’s Jewels LLC, which is the exclusive salvor of the shipwrecks and the custodian appointed by the U.S. District Court. The historical significance of the coins and artifacts they recover is immense, as they offer a glimpse into the past and the events surrounding the ill-fated 1715 Treasure Fleet.
The 1715 Treasure Fleet set sail for Spain from Cuba in July 1715, carrying cargo and treasures from the New World. Tragically, much of the fleet sank during a hurricane a week later, leading to the loss of precious cargo and countless lives. For the treasure hunters, the thrill lies in the discovery itself, as Lea explained, “It’s all about the find. I love the history, being the first person up in 309 years to find what was once lost in a tragedy.”
In their ongoing quest for treasure, the hunters navigate the depths of the ocean, facing countless challenges and uncertainties. However, it is moments like these, when they unearth centuries-old artifacts and coins, that make their efforts worthwhile. The treasure trove they recovered offers a connection to the past and a reminder of the stories hidden beneath the sea.
As they clean and restore the coins salvaged from the shipwrecks, the treasure hunters reflect on the significance of their work. Each artifact tells a story of loss, survival, and resilience, offering a unique perspective on the events that unfolded centuries ago. Their discoveries not only enrich their own lives but also contribute to the understanding of history and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
