Powerball Jackpot Soars to $1.7 Billion — Third Largest in U.S. History

The Powerball jackpot is climbing once again, hitting an estimated $1.7 billion for Saturday night’s drawing after no tickets matched Wednesday’s $1.4 billion prize. The cash value of the jackpot stands at about $770.3 million before taxes, making this the third-largest lottery prize in U.S. history. If sales surge before the weekend, the jackpot could even edge into the No. 2 spot. The winning numbers on Wednesday were 3, 16, 29, 61, 69, and Powerball 22. Saturday’s drawing will mark the 42nd consecutive one without a winner since May 31, tying the record streak. Powerball tickets are sold in 45 states, plus Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.