Washington, D.C. Woman Returns $3.99 Thrift Store Vase, Unknowingly Mayan Artifact

Five years ago, a woman from Washington, D.C., found herself in possession of an unexpected treasure. While perusing the shelves of a thrift store in Clinton, Maryland, Anna Lee Dozier stumbled upon a vase that would turn out to be a priceless Mayan artifact dating back over 1,000 years. Little did she know that her chance discovery would lead to a heartwarming repatriation story that spanned two countries.

An Unexpected Find

As a frequent traveler to Mexico for her work with a human rights organization, Dozier was drawn to the vase because it stood out from the typical items on the store's shelves. Although she initially thought it looked old, she assumed it was a relatively modern tourist souvenir. It wasn't until a visit to Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology, five years later, that she realized the true significance of her find.

A Fortuitous Discovery

During her visit to the museum, Dozier was struck by the resemblance between the artifacts on display and the vase in her possession. This led her to seek guidance from museum staff on the appropriate course of action for a potential cultural artifact. She was advised to contact the Mexican embassy upon her return to the United States, setting in motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to the vase's return to its country of origin.

Confirmation and Repatriation

After providing photos and information about the vase to the Mexican embassy, the artifacts were sent to Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History for authentication. Experts there confirmed that the vase was indeed an authentic Mayan artifact from the Classic Period, crafted between 200 A.D. and 800 A.D. in what is now Southeastern Mexico.

In a gesture of goodwill and respect for the cultural significance of the artifact, Dozier carefully packed the vase and personally delivered it to the Mexican Cultural Institute in D.C., where it was officially returned in a ceremony attended by the Mexican ambassador.