What is the ruling of the Sharia on money found in the street?

You were obligated to publicize the lost item for a full year. If you failed to do so due to an excuse, there is no sin upon you, and you can publicize it now. Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymin holds that a lost item found on a desert road, where it is difficult to reach its owner, should be given as charity or handed over to a Sharia judge.