Treasure maps come in many flavors in Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag, but they all lead to treasures such as Blueprints and gold.
Contents
How to read a Treasure Maps in AC4
Reading a treasure map in Assassin's Creed IV Black Flag is simple.
When you pick up a map, it will tell you three basic pieces of information.
Island Coordinates
The location of the treasure is listed in the bottom right-hand corner. It only tells you the coordinates of the island, not the island name. You can look up the coordinates on your global map to see where it takes you. The coordinates will lead you to the island where the treasure chest is buried, but once there, you will have to figure out where to dig on your own, by looking at the picture and the red "X" (alternatively, you can use the Treasure Map Tool)
Note that some locations may be inaccessible depending on how far along you are in the story, though you should find that most locations are unlocked after sequence 4. Also note that some areas are underwater and may require a Diving Bell to access.
In the treasure map pictured above, the treasure is located on an island called Cape Bonavista (179,593).
This is the first treasure map you find in the game. It happens to be, that the treasure map and the treasure itself are located in the same island, but in most cases the treasure will be in a location far away from where you originally found the treasure map!
Landmark
The landmark is pictured on the map.
The landmark will always be a recognizable feature on the island. Find this and you will be one step closer to finding the treasure.
Treasure Location
The precise location of the treasure is indicated with a red X.
This is sort of a puzzle. By looking at the picture and the "X", you can determine where to dig.
How to dig
To dig for the buried treasure, all you need to do is be in the right spot, and an option to "Dig" will appear on the screen.
If there is no option to dig, then you are in the wrong place. Examine the treasure map again or use the Treasure Map Tool
If you are having trouble finding the exact place to dig at, you can run around that location until a Dig option appears.
How to find more treasure maps
There are a total of 22 treasure maps. Most of them are located on islands you explore, and will reveal themselves to you once you unlock the Viewpoint nearest to the treasure map
Some treasure maps can be revealed by talking to a barkeep at a Tavern of a fishermen's village.
Lastly, four treasure maps are found by sending Kenway's Fleet on trading missions in various parts of the world.
List of Treasure Maps
Scarlatina Treasure Map (Fleet)
Great Reputation II Treasure Map (Fleet)
The Empty Cellar Treasure Map (Fleet)
Treasure Map Tool
Access the Treasure Map Tool!