First ‘Mimi coin’ of the holiday season appears in Salvation Army kettle

FORT MYERS, Fla.- The first “Mimi coin” of the season has appeared in a Salvation Army red kettle.

This is the 11th year in a row someone donated the gold coin, which always comes with a note that reads “In loving memory of Mimi.” The coin is worth approximately $1,300.

Many people have speculated who the anonymous donor is but Salvation Army Major Timothy Gilliam says knowing the person’s name isn’t necessarily important.

“I think I know the donor’s heart and that’s what’s important to me. I get the sense that this person is warm, loving and is evidently incredibly generous and, so that’s enough for me. I think I will meet whoever the donor is, but maybe on the other side,” said Gilliam.

The Salvation Army is a third of the way to its $650,000 goal for the year.