The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has successfully recovered 37 gold coins that were stolen from the 1715 Fleet shipwrecks. These coins, valued at over $1 million, were part of a larger investigation into the theft and illegal trafficking of historical artifacts.
In 2015, the Schmitt family, contracted salvage operators for 1715 Fleet - Queens Jewels, LLC, discovered 101 gold coins off Florida’s Treasure Coast. While 51 of these coins were reported correctly, 50 went unreported and were subsequently stolen.
FWC investigators collaborated with the FBI after new evidence surfaced on June 10, 2024. This evidence linked Eric Schmitt, a member of the Schmitt family, to the illegal sale of several stolen gold coins between 2023 and 2024.
Search warrants led to the recovery of coins from private residences, safe deposit boxes, and auctions. Five coins were reclaimed from a Florida-based auctioneer who unknowingly purchased them from Eric Schmitt. Digital forensics tied Eric Schmitt to a photograph of the stolen coins taken at his family's condominium in Fort Pierce. It was also revealed that he placed three stolen gold coins on the ocean floor in 2016 to be found by new investors.
FWC worked with historical preservation experts like Mel Fisher-Abt to authenticate and appraise the recovered artifacts. The investigation involved partnerships with judicial circuits leading to charges against Eric Schmitt for dealing in stolen property.
As per state and federal law requirements, recovered artifacts will be returned to their rightful custodians. FWC is committed to recovering the remaining 13 stolen coins and prosecuting those involved in their illegal sale.
“This case underscores the importance of safeguarding Florida’s rich cultural heritage and holding accountable those who seek to profit from its exploitation,” stated FWC Investigator Camille Soverel.
FWC expressed gratitude towards its investigative team and partners who contributed to this case. The public can report conservation violations through various channels provided by FWC.
The 1715 Fleet comprises Spanish treasure ships that sank during a hurricane off Florida's coast in 1715. Artifacts from these wrecks are protected by law as they offer insights into history.