23. 2. 2008

Stamp Theft of Oregon Stamp Dealer

On Sunday evening, February 17, 2008, thieves broke into the truck of Tom Kinberg, Stamp Art, of Lincoln City, Oregon. He and traveling buddy dealer Gary Hoecker were on their way home after attending Sno-King Stamp Show in Everett, Washington. They had stopped at Northgate Mall in north Seattle, Washington, for dinner. The thieves popped the locks on the truck and stole both gentlemen’s briefcases, Tom’s suitcase and over $15,000.00 worth of stock. There was nothing of value in Gary’s stolen briefcase. Lost from Tom’s briefcase were $600.00 to $700.00 in checks, Visa sales slips and Tom’s checkbook. He also had $4,000.00 to $5,000.00 worth of stock in his briefcase. This consisted of higher price Canada in dealer stock cards, Hungary souvenir sheets in dealer stock pages, and Swedish stamps on Scott Specialty pages.

The thieves also took a box that contained 11 white boxes of #2 cards holding stamps that were priced and ready to be sorted into his show stock; estimated value is minimum $11,000.00.

If you suspect anyone of trying to sell these items at local stamp shows, to your club members or on Craigslist or eBay, please contact your local police. Seattle police Case Number is 08-063182. You can also contact Tom Kinberg directly at 503-910-9552.


Carol J. Edholm and Bob Ingraham