Deep-sea explorers who found $500 million in sunken treasure two years ago say they have discovered another prized shipwreck: The HMS Victory, a legendary British man-of-war that sank in the English Channel 264 years ago.
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Research indicates the ship was carrying 4 tons of gold coins when it sank in storm, said Greg Stemm, co-founder of Odyssey Marine Exploration, ahead of a Monday news conference in London.
So far, two brass cannons have been recovered from the wreck, Stemm said. The Florida-based company said it is negotiating with the British government over collaborating on the recovery project.
“Assuming the wreck is indeed that of a British warship, her remains are sovereign immune,” a Ministry of Defense spokesman said on condition of anonymity. “This means that no intrusive action may be taken without the express consent of the United Kingdom.”