Pokemon Card Heist: $963K in Graded Cards Stolen from FedEx Truck

Ever wonder what happens when your prized Pokemon cards are in transit to get graded? For some collectors, that nightmare became real on October 13 when thieves broke into a FedEx truck parked near Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) in Santa Ana, California, and made off with nearly $1 million in cards.

According to The Athletic (via ABC News), the Santa Ana Police Department reported that hundreds of cards were stolen, with an estimated value of $963,000. The thieves didn't mess around—they grabbed two full pallets of cards and tore through a third, snagging even more packaged goodies. The haul included sports cards and Pokemon cards, all belonging to collectors from across the country who had sent their cards to PSA for authentication and grading.

The police statement noted that the pallets contained "various trading cards, including, but not limited to, sports cards and Pokemon cards," and that the exact value of the stolen items hasn't been fully determined yet. Still, the near-million-dollar estimate gives you an idea of just how much was taken.

In the aftermath, Collectors (PSA's parent company) told ABC News it has deactivated the certificates for the missing cards and alerted its marketplace partners to "be on the lookout" in case the cards surface. "We are aware of a theft involving a third-party shipping vehicle carrying PSA-graded items," the company said. "We are working closely with law enforcement and the carrier as the investigation continues. Our customer service team has contacted affected customers directly and is arranging compensation based on fair market value. We understand the impact this has on collectors involved, many of whom see these cards as far more than a financial asset."

FedEx is also on the case, telling ABC News it's cooperating with police. "The security of our customers' shipments is a top priority, and we are working with local law enforcement in their investigation," the corporation said. "Further questions should be referred to local investigators."

This isn't an isolated incident, either. Pokemon card thefts have become disturbingly common—sometimes even at gunpoint. What was once a wholesome hobby has turned into a high-stakes game where cards are worth tens of thousands of dollars. It's wild to think that 30 years ago, you could just walk into a store and buy a pack without worrying about someone jacking your collection.

So, what do you think? Will you be extra careful with your card shipments from now on? Let us know in the comments!