Possible Stolen Sword Alert

[Eric Santucci]

Hi all,

 

The special order anti-rust Morimichi sword for the Maeda Family with horimono I had posted for sale was successfully sold this week and shipped on Thurs. Upon shipping via USPS 2-Day Express Mail, the package status stopped updating after leaving the Dulles VA Distribution Center hub on Thurs evening; it had been on its way to a buyer in Norfolk, VA.

 

Reference link: https://www.militaria.co.za/nmb/topic/45989-for-sale-1938-special-order-maeda-family-sword/

 

I’ve never had a lost or stolen package via USPS in 25 years of collecting antiques, but appears something is off here. I will be opening an investigation with USPS once their grace period is over.

 

In the meantime, as this is a holiday weekend, I would greatly appreciate if everyone can please keep an eye out on Ebay, forums, etc. in case it was stolen and shows up for sale.  This is me being overly cautious.

 

Thanks all and please have a better weekend than me

[Brian]

I can only imagine the stress. I trust it is just a glitch and it arrives safely. Please keep us updated.
I think it's time to include a tracking device such as an AirTag in every sword or item of value you are shipping. Already many are doing that.

[Eric Santucci]

Thanks Brian, that is an excellent idea about the AirTag and I will definitely be doing that from now on for future items. Hope to have another update by Tuesday once USPS reopens after the Federal holiday.

 

[Ron M]

This item has been recovered and delivered, well received in good order. Thankful 🙏

[NewB]

Phew

 

Y.

[Eric Santucci]

Thanks all, it has been a journey with this one. USPS dropped the ball on this one multiple times. In fact shipping status still shows as undelievered even though it was. 

 

Airtags arrived the other day and will be used for future shipping. If I use USPS ever again, I will be returning to Registered Mail service, since that is tracked via a secured process. However, Fedex Overnight will likely be the preferred choice now.

 

 

 

[Michaelr]

You did the right thing by putting the word out ASAP. in the past I purchased an item and the seller requested a PMO only. Sent it registered mail and the person scammed me. As with your package, tracking stopped, PMO got cashed without ID and nobody at USPS cares. It took me over 2 years to finally get my money back by staying on it, contacting the US government fraud department, FBI, ATF, Post Master General, and the district attorney’s office. Glad you didn’t have to go through any of that but never hesitate and never give up. I am so glad that this time it worked out for both parties ( wish I was on the receiving end of this one, beautiful and congratulations)   Brian, great idea with the air tags. I don’t ship much but will order a few just in case. Again happy for both parties   

  MikeR

[Brian]

One other thing: Before using the airtag, Google or Youtube how to remove the speaker from an airtag. Plenty of sites showing how.
When tracking them, they give out a high pitched beep that can alert the person. Get rid of that and you'll find your stuff.