- The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)
- The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
- The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)
- The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
- Mackenna's Gold (1969)
- The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
- The Quick and the Dead (1995)
- The Professionals (1966)
- The Far Country (1954)
- The Great Train Robbery (1978)
The allure of hidden treasures and the rugged landscapes of the American West have always made for compelling cinema. This curated list of 10 Western films focuses on the theme of treasure hunting, offering viewers a mix of action, adventure, and the timeless quest for wealth. These films not only entertain but also provide a glimpse into the historical fascination with gold, silver, and other riches, making them a treasure trove for both Western enthusiasts and those who love a good treasure hunt.

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)
Description: This classic film follows three prospectors searching for gold in Mexico, highlighting the perils of greed and the harsh realities of treasure hunting.
Fact: Humphrey Bogart was nominated for an Academy Award for his role, and the film won three Oscars, including Best Director for John Huston.


The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: While not strictly about treasure, the film's narrative involves a hidden truth, akin to a buried treasure, that shapes the destiny of its characters.
Fact: This film marked the last time John Wayne and James Stewart would work together.


The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)
Description: While primarily a revenge tale, the film includes a subplot involving a hidden treasure that the brothers seek to reclaim.
Fact: This was John Wayne's first film with Henry Hathaway since "True Grit."


The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
Description: While primarily known for its iconic showdowns, this film also involves a quest for Confederate gold, making it a quintessential treasure hunt in the Western genre.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, not Italy, despite being part of Sergio Leone's "Dollars Trilogy."


Mackenna's Gold (1969)
Description: A marshal is forced to lead a group of outlaws to a legendary gold mine, showcasing the treacherous journey and the moral dilemmas faced by those seeking fortune.
Fact: The film features one of the largest casts of Native American actors ever assembled for a Hollywood production.


The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: Although more about revenge, Josey Wales stumbles upon a Confederate gold stash, adding a treasure hunt element to his journey.
Fact: Clint Eastwood directed, produced, and starred in this film, showcasing his multifaceted talents.


The Quick and the Dead (1995)
Description: While the film centers around a quick-draw contest, the underlying motive for many characters is the prize money, akin to a treasure hunt.
Fact: Sam Raimi, known for horror and superhero films, directed this Western, bringing his unique style to the genre.


The Professionals (1966)
Description: A group of experts are hired to rescue a woman, but the mission involves retrieving a hidden gold shipment, blending adventure with treasure hunting.
Fact: The film was shot in Mexico, providing an authentic backdrop for its Western setting.


The Far Country (1954)
Description: This film involves a cattle drive to the Yukon, where the promise of gold and land drives the plot, reflecting the gold rush era's allure.
Fact: The film was shot in part in Jasper National Park, Canada, providing stunning backdrops for the story.


The Great Train Robbery (1978)
Description: Set in Victorian England, this film involves a heist for gold, but its themes of planning and executing a treasure hunt resonate with Western adventure.
Fact: The film is based on a real historical event, though it takes creative liberties with the story.
