Couple’s Magnet Fishing Adventure in Queens Reveals Hidden $100,000 Stash

During a magnet fishing outing at a lake in Corona Park, Queens, James Kane and Barbie Agostini stumbled upon an extraordinary treasure: an old safe filled with cash. The couple, who turned to this hobby during lockdowns as a form of budget-friendly treasure hunting, have uncovered various fascinating items, but this find stands out.

An Unexpected Treasure Found in Queens’ Corona Park

Having previously retrieved safes during their magnet fishing excursions, Kane and Agostini were shocked to discover money inside this time. They described the cash as "two thick bundles of hundred-dollar bills," with Kane showing the drenched money to Agostini, who recalled, “Once I saw the bills and the security strips, I was stunned.” Unfortunately, the water had badly damaged the currency.

The safe was located near LaGuardia Airport before the couple contacted local authorities. While police suspected the safe was stolen property, with no rightful owner identified, Kane and Agostini were allowed to keep the money. Kane joked about their luck, saying, “Looks like finders-keepers was on our side.”

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A couple from New York said they discovered around $100,000 of waterlogged cash, after reeling up a safe while magnet fishing in Queens. #fishing #magnetfishing #treasure #safe #cash #nyc #fyp #foryoupage
♬ greedy – Tate McRae

A Unique Pastime Yields Surprising Finds

Magnet fishing consists of lowering a strong magnet tied to a rope into waters to attract metal objects beneath the surface. Unlike terrestrial metal detecting, this activity offers a novel way to explore underwater environments such as lakes and rivers.

Kane and Agostini dedicate much of their time to magnet fishing around Queens and nearby neighborhoods. Their notable discoveries include a World War II-era grenade in Brooklyn and a number of firearms in Flushing Meadows, some dating back to the 1800s. This hobby attracts enthusiasts eager to uncover submerged relics.

Diving Into Hidden Histories Below the Surface

Objects brought up by magnet fishing often reveal glimpses into the past. Items like guns and safes usually come with intriguing backstories. Kane pointed out, “You don’t have to be an expert archaeologist or historian, but a bit of luck and a sense of adventure, like Indiana Jones, certainly helps.”

The recent safe recovery marks the high point of Kane and Agostini’s magnet fishing outings to date. Although the money suffered water damage, their experience underscores the potential for extraordinary and valuable finds in common places.

Reflecting on the hobby, Kane said, “Throwing your magnet into murky waters can bring unexpected treasures,” making magnet fishing an exciting way to discover hidden secrets, whether monetary or historical.