Someone placed a gold coin believed to be worth at least $1,300 in a Salvation Army kettle in Maryland.
The coin was found in one of the group's iconic red kettles in Gaithersburg, Maryland, the Salvation Army announced.
A handwritten note accompanied the coin, reading, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace, good will toward men."
The coin placed in a kettle outside a Giant Food grocery store has a face value of $50, though it is believed to be worth $1,300 to $1,700. Its ultimate value will be determined when its taken to be appraised and sold, officials said.
The coin's value could significantly aid the Salvation Army’s seasonal fundraising goals, as this year’s collections have been 13 percent lower than historical averages, officials said.
“Finding this gold coin could not have come at a better time, as donations are off slightly at the kettles ... so every donation counts,” said James Hall, an area commander of Salvation Army.
The Salvation Army uses donations to the red kettles to provide emergency assistance to struggling families in the area. Donations made within the area go to help families in the area, Hall said.
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To donate to the cause online, visit the Salvation Army’s area website.
