A couple from Northern California made a surprising discovery while walking their dog on their property in Gold Country. They found a treasure of rare gold coins buried near an old tree. This amazing find is worth about $10 million!
Details of the Discovery
The couple found a total of 1,427 coins that date from 1847 to 1894. Most of these coins are in perfect condition, known as “uncirculated.” David Hall, who helps grade coins, said the face value of all the gold coins is about $27,000, but some of them could be worth nearly $1 million each because they are so rare.
Who Are the Finders?
The couple wishes to remain anonymous, which means they do not want anyone to know their names. They have lived on their property for several years and are worried that becoming famous could change how people treat them. They want to keep their normal lifestyle.
Plans for the Coins
The couple plans to sell most of the coins through Amazon, while keeping a few as souvenirs. They intend to use the money to pay off their bills and donate to local charities. Before selling, they will loan some coins to the American Numismatic Association for an event in Atlanta.
Why Are These Coins Valuable?
The value of these coins comes from their excellent condition. It seems that whoever buried them kept them safe from wear and tear. According to David McCarthy, a numismatist, it’s very unusual to find coins from California in such good shape, especially coins from before the 1870s.
How Were the Coins Stored?
The coins were stored in a very organized way. They were kept in different canisters based on their age. This shows that the person who buried them was using the ground as their own bank and was careful to put them away properly.
The History of the Area
Kagin, who represents the finders, is calling this treasure the “Saddle Ridge Hoard.” He believes it could be the largest treasure discovery in U.S. history. The couple found the coins while walking on a path they had used many times before. The woman spotted a rusty can that had been pushed up by erosion and decided to check it out.
Previous Gold Coin Discoveries
This find is one of the largest in history. A similar discovery happened in 1985 when construction workers found $1 million worth of gold coins in Jackson, Tennessee. Another notable find included more than 400,000 silver dollars discovered in Reno, Nevada, which were later sold for $7.3 million.
Table of Key Information About the Discovery
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Coins Found | 1,427 |
| Estimated Value | $10 million |
| Face Value of Coins | $27,000 |
| Year Range of Coins | 1847 to 1894 |
| Potential Value of Rare Coins | Nearly $1 million each |
| Location of Discovery | Gold Country, California |
| Name of the Find | Saddle Ridge Hoard |
Conclusion
The incredible discovery of the Saddle Ridge Hoard is not only a treasure for the couple but also a fascinating piece of history. It shows how hidden treasures can still be found in unexpected places, even today. This find highlights the value of preserving our past and reminds us that adventures can happen in our own backyards. The couple’s careful handling of their newfound wealth reflects their desire to stay true to themselves and contribute to their community.
FAQ’s
How much are the coins worth?
The coins are worth about $10 million, although their face value is only $27,000. Some rare coins could be worth nearly $1 million each.
Why did the couple choose to stay anonymous?
They want to avoid attention from treasure hunters and want to keep their normal lifestyle without being treated differently.
What will the couple do with the coins?
They plan to sell most of the coins online and donate some of the money to local charities, while keeping a few coins as keepsakes.