[Protagoras]

Ms. Battles is out of luck, regardless of what happened.

Incorrect. She may become the "bearer" under certain legal circumstances. There is many precedents and probably laws as well on lost property.

[sinkspur]

She may become the "bearer" under certain legal circumstances. There is many precedents and probably laws as well on lost property.

Well, since the Lottery Commission has already recognized an "official" winner, Ms. Battles will have a very difficult time establishing any kind of claim to ownership.