The Inspiring Mel Fisher

1. The Inspiring Mel
Fisher
American Treasure Hunter Best Known for Finding the 1622
Wreck of the Spanish Galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha

2. 
In 1985, treasure hunter Mel Fisher found
the fabled Spanish galleon Atocha and its
priceless treasure, sunk off the Florida coast
in 1622. Though he had always been
captivated by diving and exploring, Fisher
originally studied engineering at Purdue
University, then helped his parents run their
chicken ranch. He and his wife dove for
lobsters to raise the money for their first dive
shop.

3. 
In 1969, the Fishers set their sights on the
Atocha and her sister ship, but the search
was difficult and perilous. In 1975, Fisher’s
son and daughter-in-law were killed when
their salvage boat capsized. Finally, after 16
years of searching and heartbreak, the
Atocha gave Fisher his reward: over $400
million in gold, silver, and emeralds.

4. 
Fisher’s treasure was represented by Jerry
Gladstone, a young fine arts licenser and
distributor. Today, Fisher’s inspiring story has
become part of Jerry Gladstone’s Common
Thread Project, which seeks to capture the
motivation and drive that allow people to
overcome adversity and achieve success.