Springfield, Mass. – The Massachusetts Lottery announced on October 28 that the Mr. Potato Head Trust, represented by trustee Hyman Darling, secured the biggest Megabucks jackpot in the game’s history. The prize totals $29.71 million, the highest ever awarded since the game’s inception in 1982.
How the prize was taken
The trust elected to receive the winnings as a single lump‑sum payment of $19,635,669 before taxes, rather than the annuity option offered by the lottery. When asked about the quirky name of the trust, Darling explained that the winner chose “Mr. Potato Head” after a friend who reminded them of the iconic toy.
Where the winning ticket was sold
The winning ticket was purchased at King Mart on Westfield Road in Holyoke ahead of the September 7 drawing. As part of the state’s incentive program for lottery retailers, King Mart will receive a $50,000 bonus for the sale of the winning ticket.
About Megabucks
Megabucks is a progressive jackpot game available only in Massachusetts. To win the top prize, players must match all six numbers drawn. Drawings occur three times a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday—at 9 p.m. The game’s progressive nature means the jackpot grows until a ticket matches all six numbers.
Historical context
Since its launch in 1982, Megabucks has produced a number of sizable jackpots, but none have reached the $29.71 million mark. The new record surpasses the previous high‑water mark and underscores the growing popularity of the game across the Commonwealth.
Impact on the community
Lottery winnings of this magnitude often translate into charitable contributions, local investments, and personal financial security for the winners. While the trust has not yet disclosed any specific plans for the funds, past large winners have supported community projects, scholarships, and local businesses.
What’s next for the lottery
The Massachusetts Lottery continues to promote new game formats and promotional initiatives, such as scented scratch‑off tickets, to boost sales. The record‑setting Megabucks win is expected to generate additional interest in the game, potentially increasing ticket sales and revenue for state‑funded programs.
For more information about the Megabucks game, upcoming draw dates, and how to claim a prize, visit the Massachusetts Lottery website.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
