x
Breaking News
More () »

Trove of Spanish coins dating to 1715 found on Florida beach

It's believed the coins are worth about $7,000.
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

INDIAN RIVER SHORES, Fla. — A trove of Spanish coins dating back to a 1715 shipwreck during a storm has been found along a beach in Florida.

TC Palm newspapers report that 43-year-old treasure hunter Jonah Martinez located the coins using a metal detector. He was able to dig out 22 silver coins he estimates are worth about $7,000.

Twelve Spanish galleons laden with treasures from the New World were bound for Spain on July 31, 1715, but 11 were lost during a hurricane off the coast of Florida. Most of the treasure lies beneath the ocean.

Florida law requires recovery permits for individuals who want to explore or recover artifacts on state-owned lands underwater, but not on a public beach.

Martinez said he has no intent to sell or polish the coins but will keep them with his other historic finds.

RELATED: The history of Gasparilla and legacy of Jose Gaspar

RELATED: Man digs up historic land mine on Florida beach

What other people are reading right now:

FREE 10NEWS APP: 

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Stay In the Know! Sign up now for the Brightside Blend Newsletter

Before You Leave, Check This Out