An $82,000 gold nugget was stolen from a collectibles show in Long Beach, prompting the police to seek help from the public to locate the thief.
The theft occurred on Thursday around 11:45 a.m. at the Long Beach Expo’s Collectibles Show, as reported by officers from the Long Beach Police Department.
Bob Campbell, the owner of All About Coins Inc., highlighted the significance of the stolen nugget by stating, “It’s worth way more than the gold you can melt down.” This particular nugget holds historical value to California as it was found in the Yolo River during the Gold Rush era. Campbell added, “It was probably an 1849 remnant, so it’s been around in people’s care for the last 175 years. Very few nuggets have survived, most of them have been melted down.”
Surveillance Footage and Investigation
Surveillance footage from the expo captured the suspected moment of the theft. Campbell identified the suspect as someone who leaned on his booth briefly before swiftly walking away. He explained, “He was able to get a finger underneath the lip of the case, which then, he actually flexed the case open where he could get his hand in there.”
Campbell made efforts to distribute fliers at the show in the hope of identifying the thief and assisting investigators. He is offering a reward of $10,000 for any information leading to the recovery of the valuable nugget. Despite the common assumption that he may have insurance, Campbell revealed, “I don’t have insurance — I eat it.” Nevertheless, he remains determined to pursue justice alongside his fellow coin dealer friends.
Seeking Help and Justice
Campbell’s plea for help extends to anyone with information about the stolen gold nugget. He encourages individuals with further details to contact LBPD.
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Additional Insight:
– Gold nuggets hold historical and sentimental value, making their theft not just a financial loss but a loss of heritage as well.
– The reward offered by Campbell showcases the lengths individuals are willing to go to for the recovery of stolen items with high personal or cultural significance.
– The lack of insurance and personal investment in the stolen nugget emphasize the emotional impact of such thefts on collectors and dealers.
