Five years ago, Laura Young, a thrift store owner, discovered the ancient Roman bust at a Texas Goodwill for just $34.99.

The bust, which originated in Italy, was last traced to the Pompejanum, a replica Pompeii villa commissioned in the 1840s by King Ludwig I of Bavaria. After World War II, the bust disappeared, possibly taken by a U.S. soldier. It resurfaced at the San Antonio Museum of Art, where it has been on display for the past year.

Ms Young suspected the bust may be worth significantly more. Her hunch about the bust’s value led her to consult University of Texas scholars and auction house experts. After four years, she confirmed the artwork’s authenticity. Though unable to keep or sell the bust, she is glad to have played a part in its complex history.

The bust will be removed from display on May 21 and returned to Germany, either to the Pompejanum or the Munich Glyptothek, Artnet reports.