TL;DR
In 2013, a Northern California couple found 1,427 buried gold coins worth approximately $10 million. The discovery is the largest of its kind in U.S. history. The coins have been authenticated and are being sold through a major platform.
A couple walking their dog in Northern California in 2013 discovered a buried hoard of 1,427 gold coins, valued at approximately $10 million, making it the largest such find in U.S. history.
The couple, whose identities remain private, found the coins while hiking on their property. They initially noticed a rusted can and a strange rock, which led to the discovery of eight cans containing the gold coins. The coins date from 1847 to 1894 and include rare, high-grade specimens. Experts from Kagin’s and PCGS authenticated the coins, some of which are among the finest known in their categories. The couple has decided to sell some of the coins, with proceeds supporting personal debt repayment and charity, while keeping some as family heirlooms.
Why It Matters
This discovery is significant because it is the largest buried gold coin collection ever found in the U.S., valued at about $10 million. It raises questions about historical treasure, private property rights, and the potential tax implications for the finders. The coins’ rarity and condition also make this a notable event for collectors and historians.
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Background
The Saddle Ridge Hoard, as it is known, was discovered in 2013 on private property in Northern California. The coins, mostly from the late 19th century, had been buried for decades or possibly over a century. Prior to this, the largest buried gold collection in the U.S. was found in Tennessee in 1985, valued at about $1 million. The discovery has since been authenticated, with some coins in mint condition and among the rarest known. The find has attracted attention from numismatics experts and collectors worldwide.
“Many of these coins are in uncirculated condition, and some are among the finest known in the world.”
— Donald Kagin, Kagin’s firm
“We had no idea what we found when we first saw the can sticking out of the ground.”
— John and Mary, the discoverers
gold coin grading and authentication kit
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What Remains Unclear
It is still unclear who originally buried the coins or why they were hidden. The exact location of the hoard remains private, and the full historical context of the buried coins is not yet known.
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What’s Next
The coins are being authenticated and graded by professional services. Some will be sold through Amazon’s collectibles store, and proceeds will support the discoverers and charities. The property owners may also face tax obligations related to the treasure’s value. Further historical research may uncover more details about the origin of the hoard.
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Key Questions
How much are the coins worth?
The coins are valued at approximately $10 million based on appraisal and market value, with some individual coins worth up to $1 million each.
Who found the coins?
The discovery was made by a private couple walking their dog on their property in Northern California in 2013. Their identities remain private.
What is the origin of the coins?
The exact origin remains unknown. The coins date from 1847 to 1894, and it is unclear who buried them or why. The discovery has prompted historical and archaeological interest.
What will happen to the coins now?
The coins are being authenticated, graded, and will be sold through a major online platform. Some proceeds will go to the discoverers and charities, while some coins will be retained as family heirlooms.
Are there legal issues involved?
Tax implications are possible, as treasure trove is considered taxable income under U.S. law. The property owners and discoverers may need to address legal and tax considerations in the process of selling the coins.
Source: reddit
