Legal Definitions - Treasure trove

Definition: Treasure trove is a French term that refers to valuable items such as gold, silver, or diamonds that are found hidden in the ground or some other private place, and the owner of these items is unknown. When a person finds such items, they can usually claim ownership of them against all individuals except the true owner.

• Finding a stash of gold coins buried in your backyard
• Discovering a collection of antique jewelry hidden in a wall of your house
• Uncovering a cache of silver bars while hiking in the mountains

These examples illustrate how treasure trove works. If you find valuable items that are hidden and their owner is unknown, you can usually claim ownership of them. However, if the true owner comes forward and can prove that the items belong to them, then they have the right to reclaim them.