LA CROSSE, Wis. — A rare gold coin dropped into a Salvation Army collection kettle could net the charity hundreds of dollars.

La Crosse Corps Major Jack Holloway said Tuesday’s donation was made anonymously at the charity’s headquarters. He says the coin could be worth $500 once auctioned off.

The Red Kettle campaign often produces tales of generosity during the holidays, including one involving a $500,000 check in Minnesota last month. But Holloway says it’s unusual to get a gift of that size in a smaller city. He says the man wanted to help the homeless shelter and preferred he didn’t get any personal recognition.

Two years ago, the La Crosse chapter had a diamond engagement ring show up in a kettle. It netted $325.