A thirteen-year-old girl from the USA earned over $21,000. She received a collectible card for free at a game. The baseball game took place in Seattle. The unique card features the viral raccoon Jimothy. The card was auctioned on eBay on August 30. The final price of the lot reached $21,100.
The internet picked up Jimothy's story in mid-July. The raccoon was accidentally filmed in Seattle. Due to a spinal issue, the animal appeared very small. It was noticeably smaller than an average dog or cat. This feature made the raccoon a social media star. Its popularity quickly went beyond typical memes. Modders added Jimothy to the games Skyrim and Stardew Valley. The Seattle Mariners baseball club hosted a themed night in his honor.
Game attendees received free collectible cards featuring the raccoon. Among the giveaway items were also special versions of merchandise. Thirteen-year-old Abby got the only gold rookie card. The schoolgirl kept the find for several weeks. This was reported by FOX News. After that, the girl listed the rarity on eBay. Bidding started at less than one dollar. But rates quickly went up. Jimothy fans joined the battle for the unique card. The proceeds will go towards the girl's education.
This is far from the first case of an expensive sale. Free merchandise from baseball games often sells for serious money. The Los Angeles Dodgers held a One Piece night. Attendees were given cards featuring Luffy and straw hats. A set was listed on eBay for two thousand dollars. The viral raccoon also appeared in World of Warcraft. Jimothy became an official character in Dungeons & Dragons.