An Unbelievable Discovery
Five years ago, Anna Lee Dozier purchased a vase from a thrift store clearance shelf in Clinton, Maryland, for just $3.99. At first glance, it seemed like a decorative piece that reminded her of Mexico, a country she had worked in as a human rights advocate. However, the vase turned out to be a rare and authentic artifact crafted by the Maya civilization between 200 and 800 C.E.
A Growing Suspicion
Dozier kept the vase on a shelf in her Washington, D.C., home for years, never suspecting its true value. During a visit to the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, she noticed the striking resemblance between her thrift store find and ancient Maya pottery. Upon returning to the U.S., she contacted the Mexican Embassy to authenticate the vase and was stunned to learn that it was genuine.
Returning a Cultural Treasure
After confirming the vase’s authenticity, Dozier agreed to return it to Mexico. A repatriation ceremony was held on June 17, where Mexican officials praised her for playing a vital role in restoring a piece of history to its rightful place.
How a $3.99 Vase Became a Priceless Maya Artifact 🪙
An Unbelievable Discovery
Five years ago, Anna Lee Dozier purchased a vase from a thrift store clearance shelf in Clinton, Maryland, for just $3.99. At first glance, it seemed like a decorative piece that reminded her of… pic.twitter.com/0Y7dr4QhWA— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TBBOB2) August 16, 2024