Reports indicate that the first discovery was made when the man spotted a large gold bar protruding from the riverbank. Shortly after, another individual ventured into the river and unearthed an even larger gold bar. Rumors quickly spread that the treasure might be linked to Truong Hien Trung, a historical figure associated with peasant uprisings during the Ming Dynasty, adding an intriguing layer to the unfolding saga.
However, archaeological experts wasted no time in cordoning off the area and persuading villagers to surrender any gold they had found. Dispatched by the Sichuan Cultural Relics Protection Bureau, an archaeological team was swiftly assembled to investigate the site and determine the authenticity of the claims.
Facing numerous challenges, particularly the swift water flow and the vast expanse of the riverbed, the archaeologists resorted to building dikes and draining sections of the river to facilitate excavation. Employing metal detectors and large-scale soil screening devices, they meticulously combed through the riverbed, unearthing a plethora of artifacts dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
Among the remarkable finds were ancient coins engraved with the inscription “King of Qi rewards merit,” hinting at their significance beyond mere currency. Furthermore, a peculiar discovery was made when experts stumbled upon a large log submerged in the river, leading to the revelation of hidden silver bars concealed within.
After five months of relentless excavation efforts, the archaeological team successfully unearthed over 30,000 artifacts, including coins, silver bars, and various cultural relics. The total value of the recovered treasures, estimated at a staggering 500 million USD, underscores the historical and monetary significance of the find.
As the investigation concludes, the discovery stands as a testament to the enduring allure of buried treasures and the tireless efforts of archaeologists in unraveling the mysteries of the past.