Two Men, Two Lucky Mistakes: One Buries $1M Ticket, the Other Finds Fortune After Losing Debit Card
Sometimes luck comes when you least expect it — and in the most unexpected ways. Two recent lottery winners in the U.S. proved just that, turning everyday mishaps into massive windfalls worth hundreds of thousands — and even millions.
From a buried $1 million treasure in Michigan to a $480,000 surprise after a frantic debit card search in Washington, these real-life stories are what lottery dreams are made of.
Buried Treasure in Michigan: “I Didn’t Want to Keep It in the House”
In Van Buren County, Michigan, a 45-year-old man walked into a Speedway gas station for a routine lottery ticket — but a cashier accidentally handed him a ticket for the wrong game: Major Cashword.
Instead of returning it, he decided to go with it. That decision would change his life.
After realizing he had won $1 million, the anonymous winner became so paranoid about losing the ticket that he sealed it in a mason jar and buried it in his backyard.
“I was so paranoid something would happen to it if I kept it in the house,”
he told Michigan Lottery officials. And who can blame him? With such a life-changing sum on the line, he wasn’t taking any chances.
He later claimed his prize and opted for a lump sum payout of approximately $634,000. His plans? Pay off his home, clear some bills, and save for retirement.
“Burying the ticket in a mason jar is certainly a unique way to hang on to a winning ticket,”
said Suzanna Shkreli, commissioner of the Michigan Lottery.
“Congratulations to the lucky winner on his $1 million buried treasure!”
The game, Major Cashword, launched in February 2024. At the time of writing, more than $47 million in prizes are still available, including two remaining $1 million top prizes.
Washington Shopper Finds Lost Card — Then Wins $480K
Over in Marysville, Washington, a shopping trip at WinCo Foods turned into a whirlwind of panic and then pure luck.
A man had just finished shopping when he realized his debit card was missing. After what he described as a “frantic search,” he returned to the store and found it.
Feeling relieved, he jokingly told himself,
“This must be my lucky day. I should buy some lottery tickets.”
So he did.
Among his purchases was a HIT 5 ticket for just $1. Later that night, when checking the numbers, he discovered he had matched all five — making him the newest $480,000 lottery winner in the state.
Unlike the man in Michigan, this winner already has his plans mapped out: a trip to Japan, followed by travel along the U.S. East Coast.
About the Games
What Is Major Cashword?
Major Cashword is a $10 instant scratch game launched by the Michigan Lottery in 2024. It offers a top prize of $1 million, with over $47 million in prizes still remaining. Odds of winning any prize are approximately 1 in 3.4.
What Is HIT 5?
HIT 5 is a draw game from Washington’s Lottery where players select 5 numbers from 1 to 42. Jackpots start at $100,000 and increase until someone wins. Tickets cost $1, and drawings are held five days a week.
Lucky Mistakes or Meant to Be?
Both stories highlight something fascinating about the lottery world — you never quite know what moment will turn your luck around.
A cashier’s slip, a lost debit card, an impulsive ticket purchase — these small, everyday events became the backdrop for life-changing wins. Whether you’re a long-time player or someone who only buys a ticket “when the mood feels right,” one thing’s for sure: luck has a way of showing up when you’re not looking for it.
As always, play smart, stay informed — and maybe double-check that backyard hiding spot… just in case.
Why You Should Always Check Your Tickets
Many big lottery prizes go unclaimed simply because players forget to check results, lose their tickets, or assume they haven’t won. Whether it’s a scratch-off or a draw game, always double-check your numbers — and store tickets in a secure spot. For physical tickets, sign the back immediately to protect your ownership.
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