TAMPA, Fla. — Florida Fish and Wildlife officials were involved in a treasure-hunt-like mystery which put them a step closer to recovering 50 golden coins that were stolen from shipwrecks.
In 2015, a treasure trove full of 101 gold coins from shipwrecks dating back to 1715 was found off Florida's Treasure Coast by the Schmitt family, who worked as contracted salvage operators.
The fleet represents a collection of Spanish treasure ships that sank during a hurricane off Florida's coast more than 300 years ago. State and federal law states that artifacts recovered from these wrecks are protected.
While 51 of these coins were reported correctly and adjudicated, 50 were not disclosed and instead stolen, according to a news release from the agency.
FWC investigators worked with the FBI after new evidence was found in June linking Eric Schmitt to the illegal sale of multiple stolen gold coins between 2023 and 2024.
Investigators were able to recover 37 coins from private residences, safe deposit boxes and auctions through search warrants. Five were reclaimed form a Florida-based auctioneer who purchased them from Schmitt.
Digital forensics also revealed metadata and geolocation data linking Schmitt to a photo of the stolen coins taken at the Schmitt family condo in Fort Pierce. It was also discovered that he placed three of the coins on the ocean floor in 2016 to be found by the new investors of the 1715 fleet.
“This case underscores the importance of safeguarding Florida’s rich cultural heritage and holding accountable those who seek to profit from its exploitation,” said FWC Investigator Camille Soverel.
Investigators said they are committed to finding the remaining 13 coins.
The public can report conservation and cultural resource violations the the FWC by downloading the “FWC Wildlife Alert” app, texting 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword “FWC” and information about the violation, calling the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or submitting a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
