What are the legal obligations for someone that finds sunken treasure?

Answer 1

This would be covered under Maritime law in the US, and other countries also have similar laws which would govern such treasures... however, I believe it depends on precisely how far out from the shoreline the treasure is found. The borders extend for only a certain measurement, but I cannot tell you what those are.

Answer 2

I don't know but If I somehow found sunken treasure I wouldn't tell anyone. Who wants the government to take it all away and send the tax people after you.

Answer 3

The law of finds and salvage governs any wrecks found within the reach of the territorial waters of the United States, and perhaps any nations that may have a treaty or convention with the U.S.

The proper procedure is to file a claim, in rem in the United States District Court, Admiralty Division.

If you found it, you are entitled to a fee if anyone can prove that it belongs to them. If you salvage it, you are entitled to the fair and just value of your salvage costs.

If no one can prove the treasure is theirs, and there are no claimants, then it belongs to you. Subject to taxes of course.

Answer 4

I pirates dream, A sunken chest.

I had one of them when I was 12, she was flat as a board too.

Legal ramifications: Wait until she's 18 and hope she blooms.

Answer 5

Just don't tell anybody or the tax man will come a knockin at your door. Remember Chester Copperpot and Goonies never say die!

Answer 6

We get this question a lot here. Use the search bar.

Depends on where it was found. You may be in international waters and on and on....

Try this link which includes U.S. and U.K.:

http://www.colchestertreasurehunting.co.uk/treasureact.htm