The Fortune Beneath the Island: How Much Have the Lagina Brothers Really Made from Oak Island?
For more than a decade, brothers Rick and Marty Lagina have chased one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of all time: the legendary treasure of Oak Island. Through heartbreak, history, and heavy machinery, they’ve dug deep—both into the island’s secrets and into their own pockets.
But just how much have they discovered… and how much have they earned?
A Childhood Dream Turned Global Obsession
Rick and Marty Lagina first heard about the Oak Island mystery in a 1965 issue of Reader’s Digest. That story—about a hidden treasure and a cursed island off Nova Scotia—sparked a lifelong obsession. Raised in northern Michigan, the brothers pursued different careers before fate brought them back together at the dig site in 2006.
From those humble beginnings, their operation has grown into the hit series The Curse of Oak Island, now with 11 seasons and counting.
Inside the Lagina Empire: TV Deals, Energy, and Wine
Marty Lagina, the younger of the two, is not just a treasure hunter—he’s also a successful businessman. With a degree in mechanical engineering and a law degree, Marty founded Terra Energy, which he sold for a reported $60 million. He’s also the CEO of Heritage Sustainable Energy and the owner of Mari Vineyards in Michigan.
Rick Lagina, a former postal worker, may have started with modest means, but now enjoys a net worth estimated around $20 million thanks to the show and related ventures.
💰 TV Earnings Breakdown:
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Reported earnings per episode: $100,000+
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Total episodes aired: 166
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Estimated earnings per brother: Over $16 million
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Revenue from reruns and merchandise: Unknown but significant
As executive producers, the brothers are believed to earn more than standard cast members. Each season includes 25 episodes, meaning they could earn up to $2.5 million per season.
Beyond the Brothers: The Crew’s Net Worths
Craig Tester
Marty’s college friend and business partner, Craig, is a drilling expert and vice president of Heritage Sustainable Energy. His estimated net worth: $80–$90 million.
Alex Lagina
Marty’s son and a fan favorite, Alex is involved in multiple businesses and has appeared in nearly 100 episodes. His estimated net worth: $50 million.
Jack Begley
Craig’s stepson and a hands-on crew member, Jack is also a producer and owns Remote Energy Solutions. Estimated net worth: $10 million.
Gary Drayton
The British-born metal detectorist has helped unearth some of the island’s most intriguing finds. With multiple appearances and his own treasure discoveries, Gary is estimated to be worth $15 million.
What Have They Actually Found?
While the Oak Island team hasn’t confirmed the discovery of legendary treasure, they’ve uncovered fascinating artifacts, including:
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A lead cross possibly linked to the Knights Templar
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A 17th-century Spanish copper coin
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A medieval gemstone brooch
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A piece of ancient parchment with medieval markings
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Human bone fragments of Middle Eastern origin
These discoveries continue to fuel speculation that something truly monumental lies hidden below.
The Curse and the Legend
According to legend, seven people must die before the treasure is found—so far, six have perished in pursuit of the Oak Island fortune. From tales of pirate Captain Kidd to ghostly sightings, Oak Island is a place steeped in myth and fear.
One particularly eerie clue: a stone discovered 90 feet deep, engraved with a coded message interpreted to read:
“Ten feet below, two million lies buried.”
Global Interest and Side Ventures
The show’s popularity has created spin-offs, merchandise, books, and even Salty Dog Sea Tours, which offers fan tours of the island and remains fully booked months in advance.
Meanwhile, the team continues to invest in other treasure hunts, including Beyond Oak Island, where they back treasure hunters worldwide.
How Much Is It All Worth?
Adding up salaries, investments, wine sales, merchandise, and tourism ventures, Marty Lagina’s net worth is estimated between $90 to $100 million. Craig Tester follows closely behind. Even those not in the spotlight—like Jack and Gary—are comfortably in the millions.
Final Thoughts
The Oak Island mystery may still be unsolved, but for the Lagina brothers and their team, the island has already paid off—financially, emotionally, and historically. With every dig, they move closer to solving a 200-year-old puzzle and writing their names permanently into treasure hunting legend.
And if treasure truly does lie beneath Oak Island, this fellowship may be the ones to find it—rich in more ways than one.
