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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ben</b><p>I just returned to my apartment in Montreal to discover that my entire collection, sparing a few cabinets, was stolen. I had kept everything in a box in my clothing droor, covered with clothing, and when I got back just 20 minutes ago, that box was sitting open on my bedroom floor, empty. As you might imagine, I am very shaken and upset....and haven't taken any action yet. I suppose calling the police and all the pawn shops in my area is the first step. My worst nightmare has come true. Any help in tracking down my cards would be much appreciated. <br /><br />Scans of all the cards are on my website: <a href="http://www.geocities.com/mc_big_ben/tobacco_cards" target="_new">http://www.geocities.com/mc_big_ben/tobacco_cards</a><br /><br /><br />now pardon me while I resume pinching myself in disbelief.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Scott Elkins</b><p>Hopefully you and the police will be able to track them down! Being a recent victim of a $1200 eBay "Second-Chance" scam, I can somewhat empathize. However, I couldn't imagine all of my cards being stolen - that is terrible! Good luck getting them back - I hate these scum more every time I hear something like this!
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Wesley</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I am so sorry to hear about that.<br /><br />It is hard to believe, but you really need to get a move on things immediately. Go file a report with your local police right away. I think your best chance of recovery is in the next few days.<br /><br />Wesley
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>petecld</b><p>Oh my God... definitely go to the police. <br /><br />I hate having to do it but I'm glad I keep all my pricey cards outside my house.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ray</b><p>Any shows in your area this weekend? You might want to contact the organizers of them as well. Someone may have taken them there for a quick sale. It wouldn't hurt contacting ur insurance company, especially since u have scans of all the cards. I don't know if they'll cover any of it, but its always worth a shot. My condolences, I hope this story has a happy ending.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>That's an awful story. Make a list of the cards that are easily distinguishable and make it available on both boards. The more people looking out for them, the more likely someone will spot them if they show up on ebay or anywhere else.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Bottom of the Ninth</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I am so sorry to hear that. Call the police ASAP. Don't touch anything. Is that all they took? Sounds like an inside job to me. Who knows you keep the cards there?<br /><br />Keep us updated.<br /><br />Greg
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>eric p.</b><p>ben, i hope the scum who took your cards is caught and that you get all of your cards back, hopefully they get the book thrown at them as well, for all of you who keep your cards at home at least buy a gunsafe to safe guard them, it does sound like an inside job, i would love to take a baseball bat to the thief, eric.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Behrod Hosseinzadeh</b><p>This is the time to get your photographic memory in check. Ask yourself all the questions that need to be anserwed.<br /><br />How long have your cards been in that same spot?<br />Who knows about the location of your cards?<br />Who recently saw your cards other than yourself?<br />Did you show your cards to any new acquaintances?<br />Did any of your friends tell anyone about your collection recently?<br />Do you live in an apartment complex? If so, any new neighbors? <br /> (a large percentage of burglaries are committed by neighbors)<br />Any sign of forced entry?<br />Where does it look like the perp entered the house?<br /><br />Ask yourself question after question after question.....<br /><br />Document Everything, write down everything. This is definitely done by someone that know's you....(hopefully its a practical joke)<br /><br />Keep us updated.<br /><br />Behrad<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Brian</b><p>Best of luck, sending positive thoughts your way.<br /><br />Brian
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ben</b><p>Nothing AT ALL in my apartment is out of place other than the cards. My $2000+ Gibson les paul guitar is here, my amp, my stereo, my computer -all here. Only a few of my friends know about the cards, and nobody knows where I had them hidden. <br /><br />I have called the police, and an officer is on the way supposedly. The only people that would have any chance of knowing about my collection are the people I communicate here on the board with. I know I mentioned several times in emails over the past week that I was out of town. Also, the customs inspectors, who frequently inspect packages going to my address which contain valuable cards. Those are the only two possibilities I can think of. My landlord is the only person who can access my apartment, but I have no reason to believe that he would, he is a stand up guy. Besides, I suspect that the robber got in through my kitchen window. <br /><br />I am truly in a state of shock.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>It sounds like someone knew where those cards were. If your stereo, TV and other things are still there, why would someone take the little precious time they had to get in and out to rifle through your drawers unless they knew what they were looking for. Ask the police about that. What a dreadful thing to happen. Even I feel sick about it. Good luck.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Paul</b><p>Ben, I join everyone else in saying how sorry I am. You do have many distinctive cards that most of us are familiar with. I'll certainly keep an eye out for them on ebay, as I'm sure you and others will too. It also sounds like you may have a good short list of suspects to give to the police, even though it may be painful to think of those people as suspects. I know it's no consolation, but I hope the two cards I sent you recently had not arrived yet.<br /><br />Paul
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Hal Lewis</b><p>Ugh, this makes me want to puke.<br /><br />Best of Luck to you, Ben, hopefully the crooks get caught and all is returned.<br /><br /><img src="/images/sad.gif" height=14 width=14>
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Hal Lewis</b><p>Ben: Is there any way that someone on the web could have learned of your address?<br /><br />I guess the internet probably allows just about anyone to find out where someone else lives if they know that person's full name and city of residence...<br /><br />which is why I keep 100% of my collection in a safe deposit box at the bank.<br /><br />I still can't believe they could find your cards... unless it was an inside job.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>rob</b><p>Ben, that really blows...sorry to hear the news, consider everyone a suspect, as stupid as that sounds. You never know who is in dire straits financially and knows of your collection. Furthermore, think of any of your friends/acquaintences that may need money quickly, i.e. gambling issues perhaps. All this may sound stupid and farfetched, but sometimes suggestions from friends (board members) can trigger a potential reason for theft. In situations like this, its not the time to say "he is a good guy and wouldnt do that", i.e. a landlord type, because you never know what people have going on in their lives.<br /><br />good luck...<br /><br />rob<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Richard Dwyer</b><p>When I was younger, my cards were stolen. I got lucky when the local newspaper put a story in their paper. The Mother of the the guy who broke in saw the story, and was suspicious of her son when he showed up with thousands of new cards. He only got 6 months in jail. I agree, a baseball bat is better justice. <br /><br />Good luck. Call your newspaper. I only recovered 10% of what I had. <img src="/images/sad.gif" height=14 width=14>
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ben</b><p><br />N162 Cap Anson<br />N162 Dan Brouthers<br />N162 Ed Andrews<br />N162 "Sure Shot" Dunlap<br />N162 Mike "King" Kelly<br />N172 Count Tony Mullane<br />N172 Silver Flint (portrait)<br />N172 Jim Mutrie<br />N172 Watch Burnham <br />N172 McClellan<br />N172 Buck West<br />N172 George Wood<br />N173 Old Judge Cabinets - Smith<br />N175 Gypsy Queen - Casey<br />N184 Kimball Champs - Burch<br />N321 S.F. Hess California league - Ryan<br />N28 Caruthers<br />N28 Mulvey<br />N300 Mayo Cut Plug - John Ward<br />E90-1 Ed Walsh<br />E92 Nadja - Hartzell<br />E95 Eddie Collins<br />E96 Mordecai Brown<br />E99 Bishop & Co - Hogan<br />E100 Bishop & Co - Tozer<br />E103 Bender<br />E104-1 Baker<br />E104-1 Collins<br />E104-1 Mack<br />E105 Mello Mint - Knight<br />E106 Christy Mathewson<br />E107 Gleason<br />E107 Parent<br />E107 Moore<br />E107 Jones<br />E126 Am. Caramel - Schalk<br />E286 Ju Ju Drums - Cheek<br />Colgan's "Tin Tops" - Chief Meyers<br />E224 "Texas Tommy" Connie Mack <br />"Orange Borders" - Tigers Team<br />Voskamps Coffee - Miller<br />Tango Eggs Dooin<br />D311 Pacific Coast Buscuit - Smith<br />C46 Imperial Tobacco - Hardy<br />W514 Gandil<br />W504 Universal Toy - Babe Ruth<br />V100 Willards Chocolate Babe Ruth<br />T332 Helmar Stamps - Stovall<br />1932 U.S. Caramel - Jimmy Foxx<br />1935-36 Sawyer Biscuit cabinet - Bill Lee<br />T3 Turkey Red - Harry McIntyre<br />T204 Ramly - Frank Chance<br />T204 Ramly - Jonny Evers<br />T204 T.T.T. Cigarettes - Jones back<br />T207 Napoleon back<br />T207 Red Cycle back<br />T209 b&w Hannifen<br />T209 colour - Cowell<br />T210 Zimmerman<br />T212 Obak - Daley<br />T213-2 Coupon - Marquard<br />T216 Kotton - Doolan<br />T222 Fatima - Schang <br />T227 Frank Baker<br />T205 Joss<br />T205 Mathewson<br />T206 Cobb (green portrait)<br />T206 Cobb (bat off) American Beauty back<br />T206 Lattimore Carolina Brights back<br />1914 Cracker Jack Tinker<br />1915 Cracker Jack Comiskey<br />1915 Cracker Jack Evers<br />1915 Cracker Jack Griffith<br />1915 Cracker Jack Speaker<br />D303 General Baking - Tris Speaker<br />D304 "Butter Krust" Barry<br />D304 "Butter Krust" Bell<br />D304 "Butter Krust" Herzog<br />D304 "General Baking" O'Toole<br />D304 "Butter Krust" Shafer<br />D304 "Butter Krust" Young<br />D322 Tip Top Gibson<br />D322 Leach <br />D322 Locke<br />D322 Simon<br />D322 Wilson<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Peter Thomas</b><p>I will, like others, look for cards on Ebay and other sources. Will let you know if I see anything. Report to police and make scans available to them. When I can access your site I will make a record of items to look for.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>robert a</b><p>Ben.<br />What can I say except that this shouldn't happen to anyone...especially a trustworthy and genuine collector like yourself. I think that many collectors on this board are aware of many of the cards in your collection and I will do my best to make sure that you are notified if I happen to see any of them popping up on ebay and other places.<br /><br />Sorry this has happened to you Ben.<br />robert
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Dave</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />What a bad deal.<br /><br />Everyone who has ever shipped you a card knows your address, you may want to provide a list of that to the police.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Dan Koteles</b><p>Ben -I too am very sad to hear this. <br /><br />Dont exclude any of your friends and it is even possible the lanlord could have done it. I gasped as I read this story !<br /><br />Absolutely someone knew of this...man, wish I could add comfort.<br /><br />The best thing we all can is make a copy of the list, keep it on hand as we ebay along and keep your website photos. I just cannot imagine this and again very sorry Ben.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Chris B</b><p>So sorry to hear about that Ben - I cant imagine how sh**ty you must feel right now. Hang in there; everyone in our community will be sending you good thoughts and keeping a vigilant eye out for your cards.<br /><br />Chris
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Kenny Cole</b><p>That sucks. Hope things work out.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>barry arnold</b><p>I am distressed to hear of this tragedy.<br />And we who love this hobby feel the depths of such a tragedy.<br /><br /><br />barry arnold
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ben</b><p>Thanks to each and every one of you for your condolences. I am still sort of in a state of shock, not really knowing what to do with myself while I wait for the police to show up. I keep telling myself, at least none of my family was hurt. This isn't the worst thing that could have happened....but it's damn close too it. <br /><br />I forgot about the two cards I kept from my childhood that were also stolen:<br /><br />1979 OPC Gretzky rookie (pulled that one from a pack as a kid <img src="/images/sad.gif" height=14 width=14> )<br />1986 Fleer Jordan rookie<br /><br />Thanks again to everyone who has posted here or emailed me in the past few hours. Whether or not the cards are found, I will find a way to get through this.<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Josh K.</b><p>I am truly sorry to hear about this. <br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Jimmy Leiderman</b><p>Very sorry to hear about it Ben. <br />Will do my best to help track your cards on eBay and any other website.<br /><br />Keep the faith!<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Geoff Litwack</b><p>Ben, I'm really sorry to hear about this - I know what it feels like. When I was in college, I had a 1941 Play Ball Ted Williams stolen from my bedroom at home. It was my best card at the time and really broke my heart...it turned out to be a painter who was in the house painting a room in the attic. They caught him, but he had sold the card for drug money and I never saw it again. I got the chance to confront him and as angry as I thought I'd be, he was such a mess that it just made me more sad. Anyway, I hope you have better luck than I did!<br /><br />All Best,<br />Geoff
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Mark Rios</b><p>Sorry is not really enough.<br /><br />Definitely an inside job.<br />Sit back and think about potential thieves...<br />it just may come to you if you keep<br />an eye out - ironically enough.<br /><br /><br />Mark
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>J Levine</b><p>Ben,<br />I (and OBC) are very sorry that this has happened. I will personally keep a lookout for your cards...did you scan them all? Please let me know if there is anything I can do.<br /><br />-Joshua<br /><br />PS This is why I didn't respond to the thread about how we keep our cards or display our cards. I was paranoid before, now I am insanely paranoid.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>eric p.</b><p>ben, it would be very hard or near impossible for someone to be able to unload cards like yours without getting caught, even if they were to sit on them for a while, i have a good feeling some will be going to jail, we will be on the look out for as long as it takes, take care, our prayers are with you, eric.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>DGT</b><p>I would suggest making a post on the PSA set registry boards and the LTS board (e-mail me and I'll post a link over there)...also, there is a fairly major hockey dealer in Montreal named Gerry Chartrand (good guy as far as my dealing have been), his son does baseball stuff as well, I would contact them and ask they keep an eye out and ask if there are other local dealers a thief might turn to. <br />here is their web-site:<br />www.gerryssportscards.com<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Bill Cornell</b><p>Ben -<br /><br />That's just awful. Todd S. had the same thing happen to him recently and posted about it here. If it's any solace, remember that even if the cards are sold and re-sold, they will probably come to light before long. Both of you are the rightful owners and will be entitled to get them back.<br /><br />Bill
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Dan</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I have some T206 cards, you are welcome to your choice of any one of mine. Please email me and touch base if you are interested. I have never had all of my stuff stolen in the manor that you just described, however, I have had all of my stuff stolen by my ex-wife (the whole collection). I had to start over, this is my way of trying to help you a little. I wish that I could do more than that.<br /><br />Best regards, I am sorry for your loss, Dan.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>steve k</b><p>Ben - Very sorry for your loss. I will completely agree with some posters here that someone definitely knew the cards were there and very probably also knew you were out of the apartment. You mentioned that "at least none of my family was hurt" and you are of course right about that. But if you have children, especially teenagers, one of their friends/acquaintances could have easily had something to do with this. Kids normally have big mouths and one of your kids could have mentioned your valuable collection to someone. I have known people in which this exact scenario happened whereby the persons son's friend, knowing the collection was there and knowing that the family would be out of the apartment - broke in and stole it. <br><br>Very best of luck in hopefully getting your cards back.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Scott M</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I wish there was something I could do to help. You will have many eyes keeping a lookout for your cards. If nothing else, you have quite a few fellow collectors in your corner including myself.<br /><br />Heres hoping you get to the bottom of things quickly.<br /><br />Scott
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Brian Koyama</b><p>Sorry to hear about your loss. Like some of the above posters, it sounds like an inside job. It seems more logical to steal and turn around electronics (your guitar, tv, etc.) at a pawn shop then to resell vintage cards. Did you make any recent sales of your vintage cards where you met up with someone at a common location? Maybe they followed you home. Too fishy that someone went right to the hiding spot for your cards.<br />Hope they catch the culprit.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Bottom of the Ninth</b><p>Hi Ben,<br /><br />I would be beyond sick if my stuff was taken. It is such a violation and hopefully something that will be less a source of pain as time goes on. In the mean time I will be looking out for the material. Thankfully your collection or most of it is pictured on your website.<br /><br />Based on the fact this idiot did not take anything else and nothing was out of place I stand behind my initial sense, which is, that this was an inside job. As everyone has said, do not rule out anyone at all. Everyone is a suspect and nobody should take offense to your giving their name. If they do, F*%! them!!!!<br /><br />If someone has not just taken them for their own personal use then the cards will surface. They can only go to so many outlets with vintage material like yours. Be sure to get in touch with dealers like BMW who do the show circuit in Canada. Once one card shows up it is more than likely it will lead to more and the jerk who took them.<br /><br />Not that it is relevant to me but you had been out of town and this happened? I was unclear on your initial post. It sounded like you were gone and came back 20 mins later to find the open box on the ground. The fact the person left the box is very interesting. Not as if it takes up space if it was stored in a clothing drawer. They left it there as a statement. I am no detective but unless they were in a real hurry the fact they left it says something and it is someone who knows you.<br /><br />Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.<br /><br />Greg
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Hal Lewis</b><p>Did you have any ex-girlfriends to whom you showed off your cards?<br /><br />They probably spread the word after the relationship ended, so I would start with them as suspected "accomplices."<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>ockday</b><p>Ben..I echo the sentiments of the other board members here..I feel terrible for you and will keep my eyes open for any sign of your collection. <br />Alan
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Jim Clarke</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />Sorry to here about that. I had a roomate who took a Clemente rookie card from my stash in college. After I called the Police it mysteriously showed up again mixed in with my 1980's stuff. I would bank on an "Inside Job". Hopefully you have some kind of insurance as homeowners do that would get them involved as well? I keep a look out on the list you provided as I'm sure everyone else will... I do what Hal does with the bank box. <br /><br />JC
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Julie</b><p>1) Not only were they stolen by someone who knew where you kept them (THINK, man!), but by someone who knew you would be out of town. I didnt happen to mention it to anyone, either on the board, or in an e-mail, that you were going to Kingston--but if your e-mails are accessible to people (I'm told Yahoo is the MOST accessible), an e-mail you wrote me could be the sourse.<br /><br />2) you no longer had a T204 Evers--you sold it back to me; I think you had a E-135 Wagner, since you wouldn't sell it back to me. <br /><br />Oh, the beautiful Kelly...<br /><br />I have some ideas which will go in an e-mail.<br /><br />****!!!
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Rhys</b><p>Since we are the subject of stuff getting stolen and what to do, if anyone ever sees a large collection of 3X5 cards come up for sale from the 1970's-1980's (about 5,000 of them) with many personalized "To Ken" or "To Ken Reimann" then please let me know. They were all stolen in the NW Indiana area about 1 1/2 years ago. I keep waiting for at least one to show up somewhere and I am still waiting.<br /><br />Ben, let us know if there is anything you need as far as help. Also if the worst comes to pass and they dont surface in some time, I will gladly donate a few cards from my collection to help you start to rebuild. I am sure that almost everyone on this board would give a few cards (cross your fingers we wont have to) to start you on your way again. There is nothing worse in the hobby than a thief.<br /><br />Rhys
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Jay Miller</b><p>Ben-I'm very sorry to hear about your loss. When I was a kid growing up in the Bronx our apartment was broken into and my silver dollar collection taken--nothing else was touched. Kinda sounds like your situation. The feeling of being violated is horrible. I understand how you feel and hope your cards are recovered quickly. Be sure to touch as little as possible--there may be fingerprints on the box, window, or other parts of your place. Good luck and stay positive!
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Rob L</b><p>Unstinkin' believable. Keep the faith Ben, you would have to think that these will surface soon and the culprit eventually found. Sorry to hear about it.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>dan mckee</b><p>Ben, I can honestly say that I know how you feel, violated! After Pop and I were robbed in Anaheim (my favorite city) we were a wreck! Anything I can do to help? If you need someone to talk to, I am home all day tomorrow, 410 833-6144 or Tuesday at work 410 965-6785. I am very sorry! Dan McKee.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Dan Koteles</b><p>do you live in a complex or condo or what. If it is large , I would hope that the cops would search every unit from head to toe.<br /><br />be suspicious of one close to you being distant or all of a sudden exceptionally nice.<br /><br />Im sure the consequences of this would get somone a huge prison term. This seems like it could have been planned awhile.<br /><br />you probably have thought of just about everything, going back to the landlord though....does he have an extra key to your place ?...Id have him checked if so.<br /><br />Good luck, we all are trying to think of anything to be of assistance to you.<br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>davidcycleback</b><p>Don't know if it's a good idea for cards, but collectors can use an invisiable ink pen to mark their gloves, photos, cabinet cards, bats or other valuables for future identification if they are stolen. The mark could range from the owner's name to a tiny dot in a corner. The marking would be invisiable under normal conditions, but revealed under blacklight.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Rob McKenzie</b><p>Ben, I hope they find your cards. If not, then donations sound like a great idea. I'm happy to donate a card if it would help. Regards
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>john/z28jd</b><p>Ben i too am real sorry to hear about this and ill keep an eye out for any of the items.Its good you have scans of most to compare them to if they show up.I couldnt imagine this happening to me,id be a wreck.<br /><br />If anyone has an expensive collection at home they should tape their premises.My dad actually has his house being taped from 2 different locations so even if someone broke in and noticed they were being taped,they would still have to break into a different house on the property and by that time the alarm company wouldve sent someone already.<br /><br />Of course my dad taped because he lives at the end of a dead end road with a long driveway and people pass the private driveway signs constantly,so he wanted to see who comes down to the house.Has nothing to do with the cards but i feel safer.<br /><br />Having a rottweiler(and 3 other dogs) helps too,especially since he thinks my room is his room,and he doesnt like visitors.Hopefully you will get everything back and be able to take one of these precautions so this never happens again.Good luck Ben<br /><br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>davidcycleback</b><p>I think donations are in order. Each member who choses (strictly voluntary of course, no peer pressure allowed) can donate an item to Ben. I'm sure Julie has his address, so even if Ben refuses to accept presents that's his tough noogies.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Brian McQueen</b><p><br />Ben -<br /><br />Saw this thread just now. My jaw dropped when I saw the title sitting at the top of the index page and I was cringing the entire time I was reading through what had happened to you. <br /><br />You were probably the first friend I made in this community and most of the cards you listed that were stolen were cards I remember you telling me about as you acquired them over the past year and a half or so. I'm so sorry to hear that the collection you worked so hard to put together for so long has been taken from you like this.<br /><br />Like others have suggested, I would make sure the police get a full report of what happened and dust for finger prints as well. I would also contact anyone in your area, card shops, pawn shops or otherwise who might be a potential "candidate" for this guy to resell the cards to. <br /><br />Hope you try to remain positive as there's hope still that you'll get your collection back. Many of your cards are quite distinguishable either by rarity or by condition so hopefully they won't be hard to spot should they turn up online. <br /><br />Ben, again, I'm truly sorry this happened to you and will be first in line to donate cards to you if a collection is taken up. Take care, buddy.<br /><br />Brian
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>robert a</b><p>I agree with David.<br />I would be happy to donate to Ben's rebuilding when he's ready.<br />robert a
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Julie</b><p>especially since very recently, some people found there way there who had no business there.<br /><br />HEY--actually, you should send anything for Ben to me. Otherwise, your cards will get coviscated, or Ben will have to pay the huge tarriff on them. <br /><br /><br /><br />This applies to everyone but Canadians; I guess they'd better wait for Bens permission., It might take 3 days; he has a (very welcome!) guest<br /><br />IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE ME, ASK BEN!
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>dan mckee</b><p>I am game for a donation as well, please contact me, Dan.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>davidcycleback</b><p>Julie, it would probably be wise for you to delete your address. When things are in order, folks can email you for Ben's address or what other arrangements are made.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Julie</b><p>I have ben Ben's "designated sender" for about half a year.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Trae R.</b><p>Holy cow - I am shocked Ben... but not near as much as you. I can't imagine how you feel right now. Very very sorry to hear of this news.Good luck on this one, man - keep us updated! <img src="/images/sad.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>jay behrens</b><p>Major bummer. I've been there. I had most of the what remained of my collection in 1991 stolen. It included a lot fo very unique and distincitve cards. I got a good portion of them back, but still never back such cards as a NM n162 Ason, NM/Mint Colgan Cobb, e105 Lajoie and Young and about 20 other cards I have forgotten about. The Cobb Colgan is very distictive in the it has a print line on the front that does not affect the face but is still the finest condition Colgan, less that line, I've ever seen.<br /><br />With the internet, if should be much easier to to get you cards back. Having scans of your cards is a good thing. Lee used to think I was crazy for taking photos of my valuable cards, but when this theft happen, I was able to prove what cards were mine.<br /><br />The thief in my case was my girlfriend's best friend's boyfriend. Apparently he knew that I was going setting up at a show that weekend and also knew that I was taking my GF to dinner Friday night, which is when he broke in. He only took my cards. He left the computers, video games, power tools, etc. We caught him when showed up a card store I told about the robbery trying to sell the Ryan rookie I had signed by both Ryan and Koosman among other cards.<br /><br />Just make sure to spread the word to local card shops and pawn shops ASAP.<br /><br />Jay<br><br>I've just reached Upper Lower Class. I am now officially a babe magnet for poor chicks.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Brian Koyama</b><p>Hopefully they can get some finger prints from the box you stored the cards in. I know in California, pawn shops are required to get a thumb print, along with other identification, when people bring things in to pawn.<br />Violated is a good term to use. That's what my parents felt like after my dad had his antique Japanese sword collection stolen.<br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Joe P.</b><p>No question, inside job.<br />Alerting all possible connections is a must.<br />Your list and your card scan site is a very helpful plus to everyone in this community.<br />It will be easy to compare with anything that pops up anywhere.<br /><br />To err is human, to make a mistake on the other hand, can be costly.<br /><br />If the person that err'd is reading this, and if you find the odds becoming unfavorable.<br />I'm sure that Ben, with no questions asked, will accept the cards that were left by someone else, gracefully and appreciatively.<br />No one else needs to know.<br />There are various ways to achieve this.<br />Time is of the essence.<br /><br />Ben, the thoughts and best wishes of the community is with you.<br />Joe P.<br />
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>MW</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I am sorry to hear of your loss. I don't know what the thief was thinking but many of the cards on your list are readily identifiable and will eventually turn up...leaving a trial that can be traced back to the perpetrator. If the person who stole your collection is reading this (and he just might be), surely he must know that eventually he will be caught and prosecuted.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Julie</b><p>If even a small bunch of you start sending cards directlky to Ben, and filling out customs' forms accurately, Ben will be $1000 in the hole before you can say Jack Robinson.<br /><br />If even a small bunch of you start sending cards directly to Ben without knowing how to declare the cards fairtly accurately without declaring their value, your cards will either be comviscated by customs or sent back to you.<br /><br />Ask Quan! Or, PLEASE--ask Ben.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Mike McGrail</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />When I first saw the post with your name beside it, I thought it was a joke or something. Disgusting, terrible and sickening all rolled into one. I really feel for ya friend.<br /><br />Try to stay calm and determine your course of action. Some good tips from board members above. Try to incorporate as many possible different methods into your action plan. The more folks who can help, the better. And until proven otherwise, anyone who knew about your cards, your address, your plans, etc. is a SUSPECT. Rule no one out.<br /><br />You gotta do your best to stay calm in this situation. A clear head and thought process is your best ally at the moment.<br /><br />Drop me an email if there is anyway I can help.<br /><br />Mike
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>warshawlaw</b><p>Horrible, Ben, I am so sorry. <br /><br />Do not expect dealers and shop owners to help you. When it happened to me I rode around flyering every store I could think of and the bastards still bought the stolen cards and tried to resell them. I found cards in a number of shops and had to buy them back (at wholesale) to avoid putting the matter through the system. Reflecting back on it now, I wish I'd put every damned dealer involved into jail for fencing stolen goods, because they all knew the cards were stolen. My advice is to print up that list you posted and get it into the hands of as many dealers, pawn shops, antique dealers and thrift stores as possible, and do not be bashful about it; put right in the flyer that you will be checking their inventories and if you find the cards there you will prosecute. <br /><br />BTW, it sounds like an inside job. I would look at tradesmen and servants (esp, maids, supers and handymen). When I last lived in an apartment I know for a fact that the super used to come into apartments working on a problem and while there would snoop through personal stuff.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>John</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />It really sickens me to hear your story. I bought the E254 Wagner from you this past year and you were great to deal with. You are also always a positve force on this board. <br /><br />Outside of the financial investment, my cards have so much meaning to me. Many are gifts from my wife, parents, and in some cases my grandparents who are no longer with me. I can identify 95% of my collection that way (by who gave them to me). To lose them would be devastating on so many levels. That is why I decided a few years back to rent a a couple safety deposit boxes. It is hard because the quick access to your cards is not there....but I know they are safer there than in my house.<br /><br />I have the list that you posted and will watch auctions/dealer pages. It is good that you had them all documented on the web page, that will be helpful for us and the police. Try to remain positive, from the response to this thread it looks as if a lot of people are looking out for you. Take care,<br /><br />John
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Gilbert Maines</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I am so sorry. A collection is not replacable. I am sure that each one you get back will be a treasure. Good luck.<br /><br />Gil
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Ben</b><p>First off, I want to thank everyone who has posted here or emailed me privately. The support you all have given me is truly overwhelming, and very touching. Whether or not my collection is recovered, I will always remain thankful for what I do have...and all of you are a big part of that.<br /><br />I filed a police report last night. The policeman dropped by my tiny apartment for approx. 10 minutes, and took down all the details of the case. I was away for about a week, btw. He took the containers where I kept my cards to scan for fingerprings - don't know how much help that will be, but there's some hope there I suppose. <br /><br />And about the donations idea - I am touched, but really, it's not necessary. If the cards are not recovered, I think that will be the fatal blow to my collecting aspirations. I just don't see how I could start over again after the time and money I've invested in it already. Of course, I will still frequent this board, as I've made lasting friendships here that extend beyond the collecting world.<br /><br />Now, I have printed out lists of all my cards, along with several distinguishing pictures, and will begin passing them out to pawn/card shops all day today. I have recieved a number of very helpful emails from people who visit this board. Special thanks to Mark Macrae and Brian Wentz whose emails have given me some hope that the cards might be recovered. Once again, thank you all for your support during these hard times.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Sean Coe</b><p>This happened to me a few years ago. The thief took several valuable cards and my then fiances engagement ring. I had some plumbing work done and some of the workers had cased my place. If you had anyone in repairing something I'd start there. Also-be clear to the police how valuable your collection is. The ones investigating my case seem to have had little interest until they knew the value of some of the items stolen. Good luck.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Paul Griggs</b><p>Ben, I'm also very sorry & disturbed about what happened. Just as disturbing to me is your "fatal blow" comment. I'm pretty sure you love this stuff as much as I do, & I couldn't imagine not collecting anymore. I'm fairly new to this board, but I'd donate too. I'll bookmark your website, and keep an eye out for your stuff.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>warshawlaw</b><p>This story should be a cautionary tale for everyone here--it can happen and if you have no insurance, you are both out your cards and SOL financially. While I would hurt like hell if my collection was stolen, I would also recoup the financial end of the loss from insurance and would have the resources to start again. It is s ahame to see a hobbyist we all appreciate think of dropping out because the loss is too much to bear. There are some insurers in the links--the rates I've received have been very reasonable (under $1 a day)--I'd urge you to check it out. <br /><br />I'm just glad all the good stuff is in the safe deposit box.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Mark Tylicki</b><p>Ben,<br /><br />I just read your post. I'm so sorry this has happened. After our telephone conversation the other day I know how much these cards meant to you. Feel free to give me a call if you need a friend.<br /><br />Mark <br />(303) 359-7191 cell
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>jay behrens</b><p>I wouldn't worry too much about Ben's "fatal blow" comment. He's in a tough place right now. Even if he never gets his cards back and does quit the hobby, he'll be back. The addiction is worse than heroin. I though I had left the hobby behind for good, never to return, but 10 years later, here I was, right back in the thick of things. Taking some time off from the hobby would be understandbale, but it will really difficult to just walk away from it forever, especially as young as he is. I was 29 when I got out and was back in at 39.<br /><br />Jay<br><br>I've just reached Upper Lower Class. I am now officially a babe magnet for poor chicks.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Eric Eichelkraut</b><p>Hello Ben,<br /><br />I just learned of this post about ten minutes ago, and I'm shocked and very troubled to hear about this tragic event. I'm sure it's been mentioned here already, but please make sure that you hound the police to investigate every aspect of the crime thoroughly and immediately. Even hire a private detective if needs be. A collection of this magnitute doesn't just dissappear without trace..and hopefully only one small clue will be needed to track it down. I'll email you shortly after this, but please let me know if I can assist in any way. <br /><br />Truly,<br /><br />Eric Eichelkraut
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Thomas Botticelli</b><p>Hi Ben,<br /><br />I am very sorry to hear about your loss. I didn't get a chance to get back in touch with you about our trade because of work and school, but I am very sorry for your loss. I stopped collecting for a while last year becasue of school and time constraints, and I felt lossed. I can't imagine not collecting Vintage Baseball Cards, and I know you feel the same. By the way, the generosity of this board is amazing. I would gladly throw in a T206 Chase Lenox to help you get back on your feet. Please let me know, this hobby needs people like you who truly appreciate collecting.<br /><br />All my best,<br /><br />Tom Botticelli
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>tbob</b><p>Ben, I just now saw your post on the Forum 54 board here. It does little good to express my sympathies with your situation but I am very sorry for your loss. having experienced the loss of 20 E98 cards a few months ago (even though insured), I know there is no way to replace the loss. Still, if you do make it to Chicago for the National, I'd like to make a present to you of a card you like because of the kindness you have always shown to me as a collector, even though we've never even met.<br />As a side note to what Adam wrote, I am today contacting my insurance agent for a binder for collectibles and renting a safe deposit box for the more valuable stuff. Somehow even my safe doesn't seem so secure anymore. What a world we live in. <br />Also, don't give up on the possibility that fingerprints can be found on the box. Most thieves and burglars do not use gloves and in a case I had a couple of years ago, an expert witness testified in court that pursuant to FBI training he had been able to secure prints off an envelope that was 75 years old.<br />Good luck buddy and hope to see you in Chicago.<br />Bob
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Bruce Babcock</b><p>Ben, I was so sorry to hear about your loss. Hopefully, with the combined resources of your fellow collectors now on the lookout, plus law enforcment, you will recover your collection. If it hasn't already been mentioned, you should notify SCD. They would certainly run a blurb on your behalf. The more folks that know about this, the better your chances.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Darren J. Duet</b><p>Ben,<br />I urge you to remain dispassionate when attempting to come up with who might of stolen your cards. Thinking clearly is of upmost importance if you are to find the perpetrator--it sounds like the theif was close to you.
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my entire collection was stolen.
Posted By: <b>Gary B.</b><p>Ben, for what it's worth, please let me add in my condolences for what happened. Since I'm on sabbatical from collecting, I very infrequently check in on Net54, so it's ironic that i should check in today and find such sad and crushing information. I'll keep checking in for the next period of time to see if there are any new developments. I am hopeful that your collection will be recovered, since you a) have a lot of high profile cards and b) the people on this board would be highly likely to see them if they come across any of the usual channels, and if the thief is even remotely interested in getting any value from them, they'd be hard pressed not to try and sell them through the usual channels. I'm praying for a positive outcome.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Gary
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