Rare South African Coin Found in Salvation Army Kettle

At The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center something gold and shiny glimmered through the thin and crumpled paper on Tuesday. It was a rare Krugerrand coin. On the paper that enclosed the coin, "a child is born, Jesus," was scribbled.

"I just can’t believe it," said Captain Sandra Pawar, Corps officer of the Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center in Atlanta, which is commanded from North Druid Hills. "We have been praying for something special to happen this Christmas and it did."

The Krugerrand is a rare South African gold coin and is very valuable because of its purity. The Krugerrand was discovered during the counting of the coins. It is believed to have been received in the Red Kettle that was located at the Kmart in Mableton.

"We estimate the coin to be worth between $1,600 and $1,700,” said Major Marshall Gesner, Metro Atlanta Area commander. "Although the donor is unknown to us they are not to God. We are very grateful for the gift and wish Christmas Blessings to the donor."

There are several ways to donate and help those in need, you can call and make a credit card donation 404-486-2900 Monday – Friday during regular business hours 8:30am-4:30pm; donate online at www.salvationarmyatlanta.org or when you see the Red Kettle give.