A California couple out walking their dog struck it rich by
unearthing a horde of buried gold coins, worth more than $10
million according to experts.
The so-called Saddle Ridge find is believed to be the most valuable
treasure trove ever discovered in the United States, according to
Kagin's Inc, which specializes in ancient gold coins.
The couple, named only as John and Mary, spotted a partially buried
can jutting out of the ground -- and after further digging found
seven more, with more than 1,400 gold coins.
"This family literally found the pot of gold at the end of the
rainbow," said company boss Donald Kagin, adding that most of the
coins date from the late 19th century.
"What's really significant about this find... is that unlike other
hoards and treasures, this one includes a great variety of dates,
many of which are in pristine condition," he added.
The Saddle Ridge Treasure is named after a feature on the couple's
property in an area of northern California known for buried
treasure since the Gold Rush in the 19th century.
The couple said they were simply taking their dog for its daily
walk when they made the first find.
"I saw an old can sticking out of the ground on a trail that we had
walked almost every day for many, many years," said John, who used
a stick to dig it out.
They carried it back to the house, despite its considerable
weight.
"I said to Mary, 'Wow, this thing is heavy. It must be full of lead
paint.' I couldn't figure out what in the world would weigh that
much," John said.
At that moment, "the lid cracked off and exposed a rib of a single
gold coin," he said, adding: "I clamped the lid back on -- I found
a can of gold coins and I thought there was a zero percent chance
of Mary believing me!
"When I told her, the look of bewilderment -- her mouth was so wide
open flies could have flown in and out several times."
Mary added: "I never would have thought we would have found
something like this. However, in a weird way I feel like I have
been preparing my whole life for it."
After further digging, including with a metal detector, they
eventually unearthed eight cans.
The couple, who are around 40, have decided to remain anonymous for
the moment.
"Like a lot of people lately, we've had some financial trials. I
feel extreme gratitude that we can keep our beloved property," John
said.
Mary added: "we're the same people we were before, just with more
freedom of choice.
"Our finances won't have to dictate so many of our day-to-day
decisions... The answer to our difficulties was right there under
our feet for years. Don't be above bending over to check on a rusty
can!"
