Thrift store finds: What’s the secret behind this anonymous donor’s rare gold coin worth thousands?
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As the holiday season wraps us in its warm embrace, stories of generosity and goodwill remind us of the true essence of this festive time.
In a heartwarming act of charity, an anonymous donor has left a remarkable gift that not only captures the imagination but also embodies the spirit of giving: a rare gold coin worth thousands, discreetly placed into a thrift store item.
It was a bustling Christmas Eve at a Giant Eagle grocery store in Washington, Pennsylvania, where local Salvation Army staff were stationed with their iconic Red Kettles, a symbol of holiday giving.
Amid the clinking of coins and rustling of dollar bills, a special donation was made. Wrapped in a dollar bill and taped with a note requesting anonymity, a gold coin stamped with the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II found its way into the kettle.
The Salvation Army spokesperson, touched by the gesture, shared with Fox News Digital team that the coin's worth exceeded $2,700.
This act of kindness came at a crucial time, as the holiday season is a peak period for charitable contributions.
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The Red Kettles, a longstanding tradition, are instrumental in raising funds, averaging $2.7 million each day during the last holiday season.
Remarkably, nearly half of the Salvation Army's annual donations are collected in the final quarter of the year.
David Zanca, a senior portfolio manager at Blanchard & Co., a firm specializing in rare coins, identified the piece as a one-ounce Canadian gold maple leaf coin.
Popular among investors for its gold bullion—valued primarily for its gold content—the coin is a tangible investment in kindness. Dated 1987, it has appreciated significantly from its original purchase price of around $520, showcasing a staggering 500% increase in value.
The choice to donate anonymously adds a layer of intrigue and humility to the story.
Zanca notes the private nature of gifting gold coins, allowing donors to contribute significantly without seeking recognition. This selfless act serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action, inspiring others to reflect on and engage in acts of kindness as we step into the new year.
This is not an isolated incident; the Salvation Army has a history of receiving gold coins in its kettles.
From South African Krugerrands to sovereign coins and a 10-ruble piece, these precious donations have been discovered across the United States, each contributing to the organization's mission.
The proceeds from this golden gift will be channeled directly back into the Washington, Pennsylvania community, supporting critical social services through 2025.
From substance abuse recovery programs to clothing assistance and help with rent, utilities, and school supplies, the ripple effect of this donation will touch many lives.
Source: Salvation Army USA / Facebook.
Have you witnessed similar acts of kindness in your community? Do you have stories of anonymous giving that have inspired you? Or perhaps you're curious about other ways to contribute meaningfully to those in need? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
In a heartwarming act of charity, an anonymous donor has left a remarkable gift that not only captures the imagination but also embodies the spirit of giving: a rare gold coin worth thousands, discreetly placed into a thrift store item.
It was a bustling Christmas Eve at a Giant Eagle grocery store in Washington, Pennsylvania, where local Salvation Army staff were stationed with their iconic Red Kettles, a symbol of holiday giving.
Amid the clinking of coins and rustling of dollar bills, a special donation was made. Wrapped in a dollar bill and taped with a note requesting anonymity, a gold coin stamped with the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II found its way into the kettle.
The Salvation Army spokesperson, touched by the gesture, shared with Fox News Digital team that the coin's worth exceeded $2,700.
This act of kindness came at a crucial time, as the holiday season is a peak period for charitable contributions.

An anonymous donor generously dropped a rare gold coin worth over $2,700 into a Salvation Army donation kettle in Pennsylvania. Image source: Salvation Army USA / Facebook.
The Red Kettles, a longstanding tradition, are instrumental in raising funds, averaging $2.7 million each day during the last holiday season.
Remarkably, nearly half of the Salvation Army's annual donations are collected in the final quarter of the year.
David Zanca, a senior portfolio manager at Blanchard & Co., a firm specializing in rare coins, identified the piece as a one-ounce Canadian gold maple leaf coin.
Popular among investors for its gold bullion—valued primarily for its gold content—the coin is a tangible investment in kindness. Dated 1987, it has appreciated significantly from its original purchase price of around $520, showcasing a staggering 500% increase in value.
The choice to donate anonymously adds a layer of intrigue and humility to the story.
Zanca notes the private nature of gifting gold coins, allowing donors to contribute significantly without seeking recognition. This selfless act serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action, inspiring others to reflect on and engage in acts of kindness as we step into the new year.
This is not an isolated incident; the Salvation Army has a history of receiving gold coins in its kettles.
From South African Krugerrands to sovereign coins and a 10-ruble piece, these precious donations have been discovered across the United States, each contributing to the organization's mission.
The proceeds from this golden gift will be channeled directly back into the Washington, Pennsylvania community, supporting critical social services through 2025.
From substance abuse recovery programs to clothing assistance and help with rent, utilities, and school supplies, the ripple effect of this donation will touch many lives.
Source: Salvation Army USA / Facebook.
Key Takeaways
- An anonymous donor generously dropped a rare gold coin worth over $2,700 into a Salvation Army donation kettle in Pennsylvania.
- The gold coin, a one-ounce Canadian gold maple leaf, was wrapped in a dollar bill with a note wishing to remain anonymous.
- The donations collected by the Salvation Army during the holiday season, including those from Red Kettles, are crucial for their social service programs.
- The funds from the gold coin will be used to support local community services like alcohol/substance abuse recovery, clothing assistance, and school supplies through 2025.
Have you witnessed similar acts of kindness in your community? Do you have stories of anonymous giving that have inspired you? Or perhaps you're curious about other ways to contribute meaningfully to those in need? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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