$1 MILLION Recovered Treasure! Stolen Gold Coins From Shipwrecks Returned to Florida
After nearly a decade, stolen gold coins worth over $1 million from the 1715 Spanish shipwrecks are back in Florida’s hands. 🌐 #News #StLucieCountyFL #Florida #Crime
ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FL – In a stunning twist, officials in Florida have announced the recovery of 37 stolen gold coins valued at more than $1 million. These coins were originally part of the 1715 Fleet wrecks off Florida’s Treasure Coast, a collection of Spanish ships lost to a hurricane nearly 300 years ago. The coins, which had been illegally taken, were discovered through an investigation involving the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the FBI.
The 1715 Fleet: A Historic Treasure Lost at Sea
The 1715 Fleet refers to a group of Spanish treasure ships that sank off the coast of Florida during a violent hurricane in July 1715. Over the centuries, these shipwrecks have been a treasure trove for salvagers, uncovering not only gold but also priceless historical artifacts.
In 2015, the Schmitt family, acting as contracted salvage operators for 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels, LLC, discovered a remarkable find—101 gold coins. However, only 51 of these coins were properly reported and legally handled, with the remaining 50 coins later stolen.
These artifacts are protected by both state and federal law, and their unauthorized removal is considered a serious violation. Despite the historic and legal significance, the theft went undetected for several years, until new evidence emerged.
Investigating the Stolen Coins
The turning point in this case came in June 2024, when investigators uncovered new information linking Eric Schmitt to the illegal sale of the stolen coins. FWC agents worked alongside the FBI to execute multiple search warrants, uncovering the coins from a variety of locations, including private homes, safe deposit boxes, and auctions.
A particularly intriguing aspect of the investigation involved a Florida-based auctioneer, who unknowingly purchased five of the stolen coins from Schmitt. This discovery was a key part of the investigation, leading to a deeper look into Schmitt’s activities.
Using metadata and geolocation data, investigators were able to trace a photograph of the stolen coins to Schmitt’s condominium in Fort Pierce. The photograph, taken in 2016, was crucial in linking Schmitt to the theft. Investigators also learned that Schmitt had deliberately placed three of the stolen coins on the ocean floor in 2016, presumably to be “found” by future treasure hunters and investors, further complicating the case.
Legal Consequences and the Ongoing Search
Eric Schmitt is now facing charges for dealing in stolen property, as FWC continues its work to recover the remaining 13 stolen coins. The coins recovered so far have been authenticated and appraised by experts, including Mel Fisher-Abt, who specializes in historical preservation. These coins will be returned to the rightful authorities in accordance with Florida’s strict laws protecting cultural heritage.
“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. Schmitt’s arrest serves as a reminder of the high stakes in protecting the state’s underwater history.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | History | Florida
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