In a heartwarming display of generosity, an anonymous benefactor donated a rare gold coin worth thousands of dollars to a Salvation Army Red Kettle in Washington, Pennsylvania. The donation was made amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, leaving Salvation Army staff pleasantly surprised.
The coin, a 1904 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle, was discovered when the kettle was emptied. The coin’s value is estimated to be in the thousands, making it a significant contribution to the Salvation Army’s holiday fundraising efforts. The donation was made anonymously, with no indication of the donor’s identity.
An Unexpected Discovery
When Salvation Army staff emptied the kettle, they found the coin wrapped in a dollar bill. “We were shocked when we discovered the coin,” said Major Leslie Walter, the officer in charge of the Salvation Army in Washington. “We occasionally receive silver dollars, but a gold coin of this value is a first for us.” 
The coin was initially mistaken for another common coin until it was evaluated by a local coin expert. “At first glance, it looked like a regular coin,” said Walter. “But when we had it evaluated, we realized we had something special.”
A Coin of Significant Value
The coin was evaluated by local numismatist, Robert Matisko of Matisko Coin and Stamp. According to Matisko, the 1904 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle is a rare coin with significant historical and monetary value. “It’s a beautiful coin,” said Matisko. “It’s in excellent condition, which significantly increases its value. This is not something you come across every day.”
The Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle was minted from 1849 to 1907. The 1904 version is particularly valuable due to its excellent condition and relative rarity. Matisko estimates the coin’s value to be anywhere between $1,500 to $2,000, but it could potentially fetch more at auction due to its historical significance and pristine condition.
Boosting Fundraising Efforts
The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign is an annual holiday fundraising drive that provides support to individuals and families in need. This year, the campaign’s goal in Washington, Pennsylvania, is to raise $82,000. The coin donation will significantly contribute to reaching this goal.
“Every donation we receive is greatly appreciated, but this coin is really something special,” said Walter. “It will go a long way in helping us serve those in need in our community.”
The Salvation Army plans to auction off the coin to maximize its value. The proceeds will go directly towards the organization’s community programs and services, including food assistance, emergency disaster response, and rehabilitation programs.
In a time when charitable organizations are facing significant challenges, the anonymous donation of the gold coin is a shining example of holiday generosity. The Salvation Army continues to accept donations through their Red Kettle campaign, hoping to inspire others to give what they can to help those in need this holiday season.
