Florida Man Steals $1 Million in Gold from Historic 1700s Shipwrecks

Photo from FWC release

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has recovered 37 stolen gold coins from the 1715 Fleet shipwrecks, with an estimated total value of over $1 million. This recovery represents a significant breakthrough in a long-running investigation into the theft and illegal trade of these invaluable historical treasures.

In 2015, the Schmitt family, operating as contracted salvage divers for 1715 Fleet - Queens Jewels, LLC, discovered a cache of 101 gold coins from the wreckage off Florida’s Treasure Coast. While 51 of the coins were properly reported and adjudicated, the remaining 50 were not disclosed and subsequently stolen.

The FWC, in partnership with the FBI, launched a detailed investigation after new evidence surfaced on June 10, 2024. This evidence connected Eric Schmitt, a member of the Schmitt family, to the illegal sale of several stolen coins during 2023 and 2024.

Search warrants executed during the investigation led to the recovery of coins from private homes, safe deposit boxes, and auctions. Five of the stolen coins were traced to a Florida auctioneer who unknowingly acquired them from Eric Schmitt. Using advanced digital forensics, investigators analyzed metadata and geolocation data, tying Eric Schmitt to a photograph of the stolen coins taken at the Schmitt family condominium in Fort Pierce. Additionally, it was discovered that in 2016, Eric Schmitt intentionally placed three stolen gold coins on the ocean floor for new investors of 1715 Fleet - Queens Jewels, LLC, to "rediscover."

FWC collaborated with historical preservation experts, including Mel Fisher-Abt, to verify and appraise the recovered coins. The investigation also involved the 19th and 9th Judicial Circuits, leading to charges against Eric Schmitt for dealing in stolen property.

In accordance with state and federal laws, the recovered artifacts will be returned to their rightful custodians. Meanwhile, FWC investigators remain focused on recovering the remaining 13 stolen coins and pursuing justice for those involved in their illicit trade.

The FWC acknowledges the efforts of its investigative team, law enforcement collaborators, and the specialists who contributed to this groundbreaking case.

The public is encouraged to report violations related to conservation and cultural resources by downloading the “FWC Wildlife Alert” app, texting 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword “FWC” and details, calling the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922), or submitting a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.

About the 1715 Fleet Shipwrecks
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The 1715 Fleet is a group of Spanish treasure ships that sank off Florida's coast during a hurricane in 1715. These artifacts, which offer invaluable insights into history, are protected under state and federal law.