The Hidden Renoir Painting

In 2012, a woman bought a box of trinkets at a flea market in Virginia for $7. Inside the box was a miniature painting she found appealing. After taking it to an auction house for appraisal, it was revealed to be an original painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, titled "Paysage Bords de Seine." The painting, believed to have been stolen from a museum in the 1950s, was valued at over $100,000. This find highlights the potential for uncovering significant art pieces in unexpected places.

The Velvet Underground Acetate

A Montreal man paid $0.75 for a record labeled simply as "Velvet Underground." It turned out to be a rare acetate recording of the band's first album, which was believed to be lost. The unique record, featuring different versions of songs from the final release, was sold for $25,000. This find excited music enthusiasts and collectors alike, highlighting the potential for valuable finds in thrift stores.