Blackbeard Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Blackbeard, born Edward Teach, began his career as a sailor in the early 18th century, joining the British Royal Navy during Queen Anne’s War. After the war, he turned to piracy, initially serving under Captain Benjamin Hornigold. Blackbeard’s rise to infamy began when he captured a French slave ship, the La Concorde, in 1717, renaming it the Queen Anne’s Revenge and outfitting it with 40 guns. This vessel would become his flagship, striking fear into the hearts of sailors across the Caribbean.

Blackbeard’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Blackbeard’s estimated net worth is $20 million, according to Forbes. This figure is subject to change and may not reflect his most recent earnings.

Career

Blackbeard, whose real name is Michael Teutul, is the co-founder of Orange County Choppers (OCC), a custom motorcycle manufacturer. He and his brother, Paul, started the business in 1999. Blackbeard’s role in the company has been a central focus of the reality TV show “American Chopper,” which aired from 2003 to 2010 and again in 2018.

Other Ventures

In addition to OCC, Blackbeard has ventured into other business endeavors. He founded the Michael Teutul Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports various charities. He has also launched a line of clothing and accessories called “Teutul Designs.” Furthermore, Blackbeard has appeared in several TV shows and movies, leveraging his reality TV fame.

Assets

Blackbeard’s assets include the Orange County Choppers business, his share in the company, and various properties. He owns a home in Montgomery, New York, and has been reported to own other real estate. His motorcycle collection, which includes custom bikes built by OCC, is also a significant asset.

Annual Income

Blackbeard’s annual income varies depending on the success of OCC and his other ventures. In 2010, it was reported that he earned around $500,000 per year from OCC. However, this figure may have changed over time. His income from his foundation, clothing line, and TV appearances is not publicly disclosed.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Blackbeard

Frequently Asked Questions: Blackbeard Net Worth

1. Who was Blackbeard?

Blackbeard, whose real name was Edward Teach or Edward Thatch, was a notorious English pirate who operated around the West Indies and the Eastern Seaboard of North America during the early 18th century.

2. When did Blackbeard live?

Blackbeard was born around 1680 and lived until his death on November 22, 1718.

3. What was Blackbeard’s net worth?

Blackbeard’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million.

4. How did Blackbeard become a pirate?

Blackbeard began his career as a pirate in the early 1710s, serving under the pirate captain Benjamin Hornigold. He eventually became a captain himself and gained infamy for his brutal tactics and fearsome appearance.

5. What was Blackbeard’s most famous ship?

Blackbeard’s most famous ship was the Queen Anne’s Revenge, which he captured from French pirates in 1717. He later ran the ship aground in North Carolina and acquired another ship, the Adventure, which he used until his death.

6. Where did Blackbeard die?

Blackbeard died in a battle with British naval forces led by Lieutenant Robert Maynard in Ocracoke Inlet, North Carolina, on November 22, 1718.

7. How did Blackbeard get his name?

The origin of Blackbeard’s nickname is unclear, but it may have come from his practice of tying lit fuses under his hat to intimidate his enemies or from his thick black beard, which he often tied in braids.

8. Was Blackbeard really as fearsome as he seemed?

While Blackbeard was indeed a formidable and feared pirate, many of the stories about his cruelty and brutality may have been exaggerated. Some historians suggest that he was more of a businessman than a ruthless criminal.

9. What happened to Blackbeard’s treasure?

The exact location of Blackbeard’s treasure, if it still exists, is unknown. Some believe it was lost when the Queen Anne’s Revenge ran aground, while others think it was buried on one of the many islands Blackbeard visited.

10. Why is Blackbeard still famous today?

Blackbeard’s fame can be attributed to his fearsome reputation, his dramatic death, and the enduring fascination with pirates and their treasure. His story has inspired numerous books, movies, and other forms of popular culture.