Iowa Mega Millions Winning Numbers: A Look Back at the Top 10 Biggest Jackpots in U.S. History

The Iowa lottery has been a part of American culture since its inception in 1985, offering residents a chance to win life-changing sums of money through various games, including the popular Mega Millions and Powerball drawings. Over the years, we've seen numerous jackpots surpass $1 billion, with some reaching staggering amounts. In this article, we'll take a look back at the top 10 biggest lottery jackpots in U.S. history.

At number one on our list is the record-breaking Mega Millions jackpot of $1.537 billion, won on October 13, 2023. The winning ticket was purchased in Maine, and the cash option totalled approximately $983 million. This massive prize was the result of a series of rollovers that began on July 29, 2022.

Coming in at number two is the Powerball jackpot of $1.08 billion, won on July 19, 2023. A single ticket purchased in California matched all six numbers to claim the enormous prize. The cash option totalled around $648 million.

Mega Millions has also been home to several massive jackpots, with the third-largest being $1.337 billion, won on July 29, 2022. An Illinois resident claimed this life-changing sum, and the cash option totalled approximately $822 million.

Other notable mentions include the Powerball jackpot of $656 million, won on March 30, 2016, and the Mega Millions jackpot of $768.4 million, won on January 22, 2021.

What happens to unclaimed lottery prize money? According to the Iowa Lottery's rules, if a winner fails to claim their prize within the designated time frame, the funds will be returned to the lottery members in proportion to their sales for the jackpot rollover series. In the case of Powerball, any unclaimed prize money is transferred back into the prize pool for future drawings.

In conclusion, the Iowa lottery has been a part of American culture for decades, offering residents a chance to win life-changing sums of money through various games. The top 10 biggest lottery jackpots in U.S. history are a testament to the excitement and possibility that these games bring. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there's never been a better time to join in on the fun and potentially take home a life-changing prize.

Iowa mega millions winning numbers