Randy Guijarro’s life took an unexpected turn when he stumbled upon an old photograph at a thrift store in Fresno, California. The picture, which cost him only $2, turned out to be a rare and valuable image of the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid playing croquet. Today, the photograph is estimated to be worth a staggering $5 million.
Guijarro’s discovery was the result of a chance encounter. He had gotten lost in the Tower neighborhood of Fresno on his way home from work one summer evening in 2010. As he wandered through the streets, he came across an antique shop called Fulton’s Folly Antique Collective. Guijarro’s curiosity led him to venture inside, where he met two individuals trying to get rid of the contents of a storage unit.
Guijarro purchased three tintypes, including the photograph of Billy the Kid, for a mere $2. It wasn’t until he examined the image closely under a microscope at home that he realized the significance of his find. The man leaning on a mallet in the photograph was none other than Billy the Kid, surrounded by members of his gang, the Regulators.
The photograph, taken in 1878, is only the second authenticated image of Billy the Kid ever discovered. Its value lies not only in its rarity but also in the insight it provides into the life of one of the Wild West’s most notorious outlaws.
Guijarro’s journey to authenticate the photograph was not without its challenges. He and his wife, Linda, spent years researching and verifying the image, often encountering false leads and mistrust along the way. Despite the obstacles, the couple remained determined to uncover the truth about the photograph.
Their efforts finally paid off when the photograph was featured in a National Geographic special with Kevin Costner. The program documented the five-year investigation into the photograph’s authenticity and provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of historical research and authentication.
Guijarro’s discovery has not only made him a wealthy man but has also sparked a new passion for historical research and treasure hunting. He and his wife intend to use a portion of the funds from the sale of the photograph to finance further expeditions and explore forgotten historical events in the United States and abroad.
As for the photograph itself, it is currently insured for $5 million and is being sought after by private collectors. While Guijarro is cautious not to count his chickens before they hatch, he is excited about the prospect of sharing his incredible find with the world.
Guijarro’s story serves as a reminder that even the most unexpected discoveries can lead to extraordinary adventures. His passion for history and treasure hunting has inspired others to delve into their own attics and trunks in search of lost gems. Who knows what other secrets and surprises lie hidden, waiting to be uncovered?
