treasure-trove

n. [ Treasure + OF. trové, F. trouvé, p. p. of OF. trover to find, F. trouver. See Trover. ] (Common Law) Any money, bullion, or the like, found in the earth, or otherwise hidden, the owner of which is not known. In England such treasure belongs to the crown; whereas similar treasure found in the sea, or upon the surface of the land, belongs to the finder if no owner appears. [ 1913 Webster ]