Randy Guijarro’s life took an unexpected turn when he stumbled upon an old photograph at a flea market in Fresno, California. The year was 2010, and Guijarro, a telecommunications specialist, had paid a mere $2 for the photograph, along with two other tintypes. Little did he know that this chance discovery would lead him on a five-year journey of research, investigation, and ultimately, to a fortune.
The photograph, which measures 45 inches in length, depicts a group of people playing croquet. Guijarro’s curiosity was piqued when he noticed one of the individuals leaning on a mallet, dressed in attire reminiscent of the Wild West. After studying the image under a microscope, Guijarro made a startling discovery – the man in question was none other than the infamous outlaw, Billy the Kid.
Guijarro’s find is only the second authenticated photograph of Billy the Kid, and its value is estimated to be a staggering $5 million. The image has been insured by Kagin’s Inc., a numismatics company in California, which is currently seeking a private buyer.
Guijarro’s journey to authenticate the photograph was not without its challenges. He and his wife, Linda, encountered numerous false leads, mistrust, and uncertainty. However, their perseverance paid off, and the photograph’s authenticity was finally confirmed.
The image is believed to have been taken in 1878, shortly after a wedding in New Mexico. It shows Billy the Kid and his gang, the Regulators, enjoying a game of croquet. Guijarro’s discovery has sent shockwaves through the historical community, offering a unique glimpse into the life of one of the Wild West’s most notorious outlaws.
Guijarro and his wife intend to use a portion of the funds from the sale of the photograph to finance further treasure hunts. They plan to explore forgotten historical events in the United States and internationally, driven by their passion for discovery and adventure.
As Guijarro reflects on his incredible journey, he remains humble and grounded. “We’re not counting our chickens before they hatch,” he says, acknowledging that the sale of the photograph is not yet finalized. Nevertheless, Guijarro’s story serves as a testament to the power of curiosity, perseverance, and the thrill of the hunt.
