**How were treasure hunters compensated in the Old West?**

In the turbulent era of the Old West, treasure hunters made their living by locating valuable artifacts and delivering them to collectors. With limited archaeological resources, the treasure hunting system became a crucial method for discovering historical relics and rewarding those willing to face the dangers. However, this occupation presented its own challenges, from disputes over payments to life-threatening risks.

During the 19th century, when a valuable artifact was rumored, private collectors or institutions would establish rewards for its discovery. These offers were commonly advertised in periodicals, disseminated orally, or posted on famous "Wanted" posters. Such advertisements detailed the desired item, its characteristics, the reward amount, and the conditions for its recovery ( intact or in fragments ). The treasure hunter's mission was to locate the artifact, recover it, and deliver it to the requester to claim their remuneration.

The amounts offered varied according to the historical value and rarity of the item. Smaller artifacts typically yielded between 5 and 50 dollars, while more significant pieces could be worth between 100 and 200 dollars. For exceptionally rare relics, rewards could reach 500, 5,000 dollars or even more. A legendary Aztec chalice, for example, had a reward of 10,000 dollars - a fortune at the time.

After the recovery of the artifact, treasure hunters were tasked with transporting it to the collector, often on extensive and risky journeys. Upon delivery, specialists would verify the authenticity of the item, and the hunter would receive their reward. Payments were typically made in cash or gold, although some cases offered goods like livestock or store credit.

However, the payment process did not always go smoothly. Some contractors failed to fulfill their promises, leaving the hunters without compensation. Delays in the authentication of the artifact or in the release of payment could result in waits of weeks or months. Furthermore, disputes frequently arose when multiple hunters claimed the discovery of the same item.

The life of a treasure hunter in the Old West was filled with risks. They often encountered armed and desperate rivals, willing to do anything for the loot. Hunters also needed to protect themselves against ambushes from competitors or looters. In addition to the physical dangers, they bore all the costs of the expedition - equipment, provisions, lodging, and care for mounts - making the profession financially unstable.

Despite these obstacles, treasure hunters became symbols of bravery and perseverance in the American West. The reward system for artifacts, although unpredictable and risky, was an opportunity for many seeking fortune in unexplored lands. The profession balanced the allure of great rewards with the constant danger of the search, leaving its mark as an indelible chapter in American history.