A woman in Maine made a surprising discovery while shopping for antiques. Samantha Ramsdell visited an antique shop in Arundel, Maine, and bought a picture frame she liked, priced at $15. She intended to replace the photo inside with one of her own.
Ramsdell told Newsweek that she found the original photo odd, but her focus was on the frame itself. Like many Americans, she has an appreciation for antiques and their unique charm. A survey conducted in 2025 found strong interest in antiques and collectibles among over 2,600 dealers and appraisers in the U.S. and Canada. The survey highlighted a growing trend among younger collectors who value the nostalgia and craftsmanship of these items.
Antiques also offer a sustainable shopping option. They often come with intriguing histories, occasionally revealing surprises. Ramsdell’s purchase did just that when she got home. As she replaced the photo, she discovered another image behind it—a lithograph of George Washington from 1864.
Ramsdell, an avid collector, consulted with fellow collectors and researched online, learning that her $15 frame hid a lithograph possibly worth over $500. She speculated it might have been deliberately hidden or simply overlooked when donated.
Though the lithograph holds significant value, Ramsdell plans to keep it for now, believing it will appreciate over time if maintained well. She has contacted a local historical society for more information about its background.
This discovery underscores the potential treasures in secondhand shopping, prompting Ramsdell to encourage others to explore antiques. As she noted, you may uncover unexpected stories during your visits to thrift stores.