Cash Could Be Yours From NJ Treasure Quests

NEW JERSEY - A digital-age treasure hunt is sweeping the Garden State.

Maybe you have noticed a few social media posts floating around, showing some whimsical figure dropping a $50 bill or two in clue-led locations. He goes by the name Samuel Norris on Instagram, but remains largely a mystery to his almost 120K followers.

The account “findthecashnewjersey” has been rapidly racking up attention over the past few months, giving away stashes of cash and gift cards from sponsors to adventurous New Jerseyans who are up for a challenge. A video clue will usually show a camouflaged piece of tape with paper money attached to one side, meant to blend in with the hiding spot and surroundings.

"Honestly, I'm doing it because I like the thrill of hiding the money...the excitement of people coming and finding it...I love that it shows me and my followers parts of New Jersey that we have not seen before. (It) gives us an opportunity to see all this great state has," Norris told Patch.

He says most of the cash comes from sponsors, or collaborations with businesses and those within the music industry.

The profile is only viewable to users aged 14 and over on Instagram who are logged into their accounts. The successful findings are also filmed and shared, shouting out the winners and letting others know the contest is over.

As of June 4, 2025, the page has 119K followers on Instagram, and has made recent drops around Oakhurst, Woodbridge and Tops Diner in Harrison, New Jersey.

The account also has a presence on TikTok, where another 11.5K followers are along for the fun.