Colombia Recovers Initial Artifacts from San José Galleon Shipwreck Valued at $20 Billion

BOGOTÁ, Colombia — November 23, 2025 — Colombian authorities have successfully recovered the first artifacts from the San José galleon, a Spanish shipwreck often referred to as the “Holy Grail of shipwrecks,” officials said Saturday. The vessel, which sank in 1708 off the coast of Cartagena, is believed to contain treasure valued at approximately $20 billion.

The San José was a Spanish warship that was part of a fleet transporting gold, silver, and precious gems from the Americas to Spain during the colonial period. It sank during a naval battle with the British near the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The shipwreck remained lost for centuries until its discovery in recent years sparked international interest due to the immense historical and monetary value of its cargo.

Archaeologists working with the Colombian government have now retrieved the first tangible items from the site. Although officials have not disclosed detailed descriptions of the artifacts, they confirmed that the recovered objects are consistent with the expected treasure aboard the San José. The team is continuing careful excavation efforts using advanced underwater technology to preserve the integrity of the site.

The recovery marks a significant milestone in the ongoing project to explore and salvage the shipwreck, which has been the subject of legal disputes and diplomatic negotiations involving Colombia, Spain, and other stakeholders. Colombian authorities have emphasized their commitment to protecting the site and ensuring that any recovered artifacts are preserved as part of the country’s cultural heritage.

Experts say the San José shipwreck offers valuable insights into 18th-century maritime history, colonial trade routes, and naval warfare. The treasure aboard the ship is thought to include gold and silver coins, jewelry, and other precious items that were intended to finance Spain’s empire.

The Colombian government has previously stated that the recovered treasure will be used to support national development projects and cultural preservation. Authorities have also highlighted the importance of involving local communities and promoting responsible tourism related to the shipwreck.

The San José’s discovery and ongoing excavation have attracted attention from historians, archaeologists, and treasure hunters worldwide. The operation is considered one of the most significant underwater archaeological endeavors in the Americas due to the ship’s historical importance and the scale of the treasure involved.

As work continues, officials have pledged transparency and adherence to international standards for underwater cultural heritage. The recovered artifacts are expected to be displayed in museums and used for educational purposes to enhance public understanding of Colombia’s colonial past.

The San José galleon shipwreck remains a symbol of Colombia’s rich maritime history and the enduring legacy of the colonial era in the region. The recent artifact recovery represents a crucial step toward unlocking the mysteries of the ship and preserving its legacy for future generations.