Local Man Wins $50,000 from $5 Scratch-Off Ticket in Kentucky

Nicholasville — A local man, who wishes to remain anonymous, recently won $50,000 from a $5 scratch-off ticket, marking a significant windfall for him.

The winning ticket, a Nutcracker Cash scratch-off, was purchased at a Murphy USA gas station near Walmart on November 22, according to a December 16 press release from the Kentucky Lottery. The man revealed that the ticket was particularly fortunate, showcasing 10 wreath symbols, which meant that each $2,500 ultimate prize would be doubled. “I scratched off the symbol and I scratched underneath, and it was like $2,500 and I got excited,” he stated, recounting the moment of discovery. “I just kept seeing $2,500’s!”

This ticket ultimately earned him the highest prize from the Nutcracker Cash game. As of December 15, the Kentucky Lottery reported that two $50,000 prizes remain in the game, although many of the winning tickets award lesser amounts. The odds of winning any prize from Nutcracker Cash, starting at $5, are reported to be 1 in 3.39.

The man recalled, “Oh my gosh. My heart dropped,” when he realized the magnitude of his win. His mother was initially skeptical about the claim, asking him to “quit lying” upon hearing the news.

Unaccustomed to playing the lottery, he described his victory as “beginner’s luck.” Anxious to claim his prize, he received a check of $36,000 after taxes later that day. He plans to utilize the winnings to pay bills, make investments, and contribute some funds to his mother.

Furthermore, the gas station that sold the ticket will receive $500 as a bonus for facilitating the big win. The excitement in the region continues as another big winner emerged from Clark’s Pump-N-Shop in Lexington, which sold a $50,000-winning Powerball ticket over the weekend.

According to Kentucky Lottery officials, during the fiscal year 2024, a substantial 70% of lottery proceeds were awarded to winners. Additional allocations included 20% for college scholarships and grant programs, 5% to retailers for selling tickets, and 5% for administrative expenses.

For individuals struggling with gambling issues, assistance is available by calling 1-800-522-4700.

For further inquiries regarding the Kentucky Lottery, share your questions through the Know Your Kentucky form or emailing ask@herald-leader.com.