$78 Million in Found Money Returned in Japan

We often post articles in this space about the efforts of governments (and sometimes private individuals) to reunite owners with their money.  Often, these efforts are mandated by law, and involve thousands of dollars.  That being the case, we were astounded by the ongoing efforts in Japan arising from that country's recent natural disasters.

According to an article in the Los Angeles Times, Japanese firemen, police officers, rescuers, and private citizens have found, and returned, an astounding $78 million dollars in currency that was found in the wreckage caused by the earthquake and tsunami. In light of the more than 25,000 people who were lost as a result of this tragedy, most of the money will likely go unclaimed (in which case, according to the article, the money will become the property of the government).  Even so, in a time where we are often confronted by story after story of those who seek to capitalize on tragedy, the article provides a welcome reminder of the honesty and decency of many.

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