NOTTINGHAM, MD—A Maryland Lottery player from Essex has enjoyed the thrill of playing scratch-offs for a long time and can now add another thrill to her list of accomplishments: winning a $50,000 top prize.

The player, who claimed her prize on February 9 at lottery headquarters with her husband at her side, said she has won before, adding, “I have never won anything this big.”

Her previous personal best was $1,000.

Her preference is for scratch-offs that cost $5 or more because they have top prizes in the five- and six-digit range.

Her winnings, which came on the $5 Cash Money scratch-off, will provide a financial cushion, she said, adding that a celebration dinner is also in the offing. Looking forward, she says she “absolutely” plans to keep playing Lottery games.

“It’s the thrill. The suspense. The chance of winning. I like that,” she said.

Officials say she purchased the lucky ticket at White Marsh Exxon, located at 8485 Honeygo Boulevard in Nottingham (21236).