Art dealer hid a $2 million treasure chest in the Rocky Mountains. A decade and 5 lives later, it was found — but not without a twist

When Forrest Fenn was diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of 58, he wanted to leave behind a legacy that speaks to his soul. But what began as a man’s whimsical idea ended in a nationwide obsession, lawsuits, and even death.

Born in Temple, Texas, Fenn lived his life pursuing his passion for art and became a wealthy dealer. But when cancer clawed at his body, the millionaire wanted to do one last thing that would define his legacy. His idea? Purchase a 12th-century Romanesque box, pack it with $2 million worth of artifacts and a copy of his autobiography, and die beside it.