An American couple insists they found one hundred thousand dollars in cash inside a rusty box buried in mud at the bottom of a pond in New York, but the condition of the wet and worn banknotes prevents them from benefiting from this sudden wealth at the moment. After sharing their story on social media and local news – supported by photos and videos – Barbara Augustini and James Keen recounted the details of their adventure.
This isn't the first discovery of its kind for these seasoned treasure hunters who search the bottoms of ponds, lakes, and rivers that crisscross major American cities. However, the treasure they found on Saturday did not contain plastic pieces or a few coins or even a deceased animal: James Keen was surprised to discover bundles of cash held together with rubber bands.
Unfortunately, the paper money was extremely damaged, completely wet, dirty, and covered in mud in places. Nevertheless, the couple, both in their forties, estimates the value of their treasure to be approximately 100,000 dollars in hundred-dollar bills. Barbara Augustini said, "It was like a dream, and I thought it was a joke until I saw it with my own eyes."
Out of caution and fear that the money might be linked to a crime or offense, the couple went to the New York police to ensure they would not "run into any trouble." A spokesperson for the New York Police clarified, "In principle, any property valued at ten dollars or more must be reported to the police." The police further stated, "In this case, it is not possible to verify the value and authenticity of this alleged currency due to its significant deterioration."
Hoping to turn their discovery into usable cash, the couple is seeking to transfer the amount to the U.S. Treasury in Washington. U.S. legislation allows for severely damaged banknotes to be exchanged for valid ones, provided they are not the result of trafficking or crime.
