“Thrifty Discovery”: $2 Photo of Billy the Kid Playing Croquet Turns into Million-Dollar Treasure

Randy Guijarro found a valuable photo of Billy the Kid playing croquet at a thrift shop. Originally worth $2, the picture now sold for millions. Guijarro and his wife plan to use the money for more explorations and maybe a new car.

Guijarro, a telecom expert, bought the photo in 2010 in Fresno. The picture, taken in 1878, showed Billy the Kid and his gang playing croquet. Guijarro later learned about its historical value and authenticity.

The photo, now worth $5 million, is the second authenticated image of Billy the Kid. A National Geographic special hosted by Kevin Costner detailed the five years of research behind it.

Guijarro, 54, described the journey as challenging, with false leads and mistrust. He hopes the discoveries continue to be delightful.

Billy the Kid, a Wild West legend, was known for his short outlaw career. Some historians claim he was responsible for nine homicides. The only other known portrait of him sold for $2.3 million in 2011.

Guijarro, a collector, found the photo while exploring an antique store in Fresno. He paid $2 for three pictures, one of which turned out to be the valuable croquet photo.

Despite plans to use the money wisely, Guijarro emphasizes that they’re not counting their chickens before they hatch. They intend to buy a new car, pay off debts, help friends and family, and continue treasure hunts. Guijarro insists they are not hoarders, as they usually sell what they acquire.

In the end, Guijarro and his wife find joy in exploring and hunting for hidden treasures, always ready for the next adventure.

Related Posts

7 quiet signs the body may show before you die

Everyone understands, on some level, that death is a natural part of life. Still, talking about it — especially the final stage — is something many people…

HEALTH The Manurung Family’s Rare Facial Condition Is Inspiring Millions Worldwide

In a quiet corner of North Sumatra, Indonesia, where rice paddies shimmer in the heat of the tropics and everyday life moves in gentle rhythms, lived a…

Clarity Is a Practice: How a Sharper Mind Changes Everything

A clear mind isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build, decision by decision. It starts when you choose curiosity instead of passive agreement, when you question…

A Split-Second Choice: The Night Courage Spoke Louder Than Fear

When a car veered off an unlit boat ramp and disappeared into the river, there was no time for hesitation. Corion Evans saw the headlights vanish beneath the surface…

Choosing Presence Over Applause: Gwen and Blake’s Quiet Redefinition of Success

Instead of pursuing every tour date, appearance, and opportunity, Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton made a choice that feels increasingly rare: they chose time. Their decision to slow down wasn’t about…

A Moment of Empathy: Public Support Surrounding Hillary Clinton

Recent conversations have brought a wave of concern and goodwill toward Hillary Clinton, as many respond to what appears to be a difficult personal moment. Across social platforms…