A Dayton, Ohio photographer named Marissa Alcorn stumbled upon an incredible find at a local Goodwill store. Initially reluctant to visit the thrift shop after dinner with her fiancé Arron, Marissa was persuaded to take a quick look. As they were about to leave empty-handed, an employee wheeled out a cart, and Marissa spotted the corner of a frame that caught her eye. Priced at just $2.99, she found the painting itself unappealing but decided to buy it anyway, thinking it might be useful for her photography studio or home, both of which are largely furnished with thrifted items.

What started as a casual purchase turned into a remarkable discovery. After some research and authentication through an auction house in Cincinnati, the painting was revealed to be the work of a noted American impressionist painter. Pre-bidding began at $600, and on auction day, a 30-second bidding war drove the price up to $2,300.

Marissa, who had been nervous yet hopeful it might fetch $1,500, was stunned by the outcome. She described it as a “once in a lifetime thing,” doubting she’d ever find such a treasure again. Recently engaged, Marissa and Arron plan to put the unexpected windfall toward their upcoming wedding.

STORY IS HERE