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Sunken Galleon's Gold: A 300-Year-Old Mystery
22 Feb
Summary
- The San Jose wreck holds gold coins estimated at $17 billion.
- Captain Wager allowed the treasure-laden San Jose to sail before attacking.
- Roger Dooley discovered the San Jose wreck in 2015 after years of research.
The Spanish galleon San Jose, which sank off the coast of Colombia in 1708, continues to fascinate with its legendary treasure. Believed to contain gold coins valued at as much as $17 billion, the ship's watery grave has been the subject of extensive interest and salvage attempts.
The San Jose met its end during the War of the Spanish Succession. Captain Charles Wager of the Royal Navy allowed the treasure-laden galleon to depart before attacking, with the ship's captain possibly choosing to scuttle it rather than surrender its riches.
Decades later, in 2015, American treasure hunter Roger Dooley successfully located the wreck. His discovery followed meticulous research into historical records and oceanic conditions, despite challenges and accusations from previous search efforts.
While the vessel's discovery was a significant achievement, political complexities in Colombia have impeded efforts to recover the treasure. However, in November 2025, initial reports indicated that a cannon, three coins, and a porcelain cup had been salvaged from the wreck.
