Throughout history, literature and films have been inspired by treasure hunters. Who wouldn't want to strike it wealthy by unearthing a pirate's hidden loot or experience immortality thanks to the Holy Grail or the Fountain of Youth? Some people are drawn to the remote reaches of the planet by the adventures alone, while others are drawn to the bottom of the ocean to search for ancient shipwrecks. However, the majority of us would rather use a metal detector to walk the beach than endanger our lives in search of a treasure that is unlikely to be found.
Treasure searching is more than just a pastime. It's a hobby. a hefty passion budget. Most of us would spend our entire life savings just to return home empty-handed after paying for a lawyer, applications, equipment, and travel that help ensure you'll actually be able to keep whatever treasure you find. The majority of treasure searchers, though, aren't "treasure finders," which is the fact.
The individuals who made the list have fortune (and sometimes at least one wealthy investor) on their side, but that doesn't make their explorations or discoveries any less significant.
..to be continued..