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Mystery coin donor: Who is leaving rare, valuable coins in one Tampa Salvation Army kettle?

2 coins estimated to be worth $5,000 together
Posted at 12:10 PM, Dec 12, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-12 12:10:39-05

TAMPA, Fla. — A mysterious do-gooder in Tampa is being thanked for their generous donations to a local Salvation Army kettle.

The mystery donor left two rare and valuable coins in the kettle in the last two weeks.

The mystery coin donor first struck a week ago on Dec. 6. They left a Thracian Kings gold Greek coin from the years 44-42 BC inside the kettle.

It's estimated to be worth $2,000.

The Salvation Army says the coin was originally used as payment from the Romans to the Thracians.

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“This small coin has the power to make a huge difference in the lives of the people we serve. The generosity shown from our donors across the Bay area has been such a blessing.” Says Captain Andy Miller, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Tampa.

Then on Thursday, they struck again.

The donor left yet another rare coin in the same kettle at the Publix on Neptune and Dale Mabry.

This time the coin, again a Thracian Kings gold Greek coin from the years 44-42 BC, came with clues and a higher value.

The mystery donor wrapped the coin in a single dollar bill with a note.

“My hope is to continue drawing attention to such a wonderful organization. The whole country should know about the amazing things The Salvation Army does for their community.”

According to the Salvation Army, this coin is estimated to be worth $3,000.

“This anonymous donor has brought such a light to our Christmas season. I hope he or she knows how much we appreciate their generosity.” Says Captain Andy Miller, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Tampa.