When Christian Lyche, a seasoned coin dealer from Farmer’s Branch, Texas, encountered a suspicious customer in his shop, he had no idea he was about to play a key role in solving a major theft case. His expertise and quick thinking reunited a man with his valuable collection of rare coins worth over $100,000.
A Lifelong Passion for Coins
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Christian Lyche has been immersed in the world of coin collecting since childhood. As the owner of Gold Standard Auctions, he has become a trusted authority in rare and collectible coins. His deep knowledge and experience make him a formidable figure in the numismatic community.
A Suspicious Transaction
The incident began when a woman walked into Lyche’s shop carrying an assortment of rare coins. Among the collection were pieces valued at $20,000 to $30,000 each. However, the woman appeared to lack basic knowledge about the collection’s worth, claiming they were a recent gift from her grandfather.
Her request to sell the coins for $15,000—far below their estimated value—immediately raised red flags for Lyche. “It just didn’t add up,” he recalled. His instincts told him to investigate further.
The Breakthrough: A Familiar Collection
Lyche’s suspicions deepened when the coins struck him as familiar. A quick search through his client database revealed the truth: he had sold the exact collection three years earlier to a client from Wichita Falls. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Lyche promptly contacted the original buyer.
The client’s shock was palpable. “He was stunned,” Lyche said. When informed of the situation, the client immediately identified the suspect: his maid.
Stalling for Justice
With police en route, Lyche skillfully delayed the woman for nearly an hour to prevent her from leaving the store. His efforts paid off when law enforcement from Farmer’s Branch arrived and took the suspect into custody. By the next day, Brenda Velasquez was booked on theft charges exceeding $300,000 in Wichita Falls.
A Rare Happy Ending
For the original collector, the coins were more than just a financial investment. “The sentimental value of these coins is tremendous,” Lyche explained. The client had planned to pass the collection down to his children, making the recovery even more meaningful.
Lyche expressed relief and gratitude for the outcome, noting that such resolutions are uncommon. When his own store was burglarized in 2019, his stolen coins were never recovered.
Lessons for Collectors
This case serves as a stark reminder to collectors and homeowners about the importance of securing valuables. Lyche emphasized the need for caution when inviting individuals into private spaces. “Lock up your valuables,” he advised, stressing the irreplaceable nature of items with both monetary and sentimental value.
A Testament to Integrity
Christian Lyche’s role in this story highlights not only his expertise but also his commitment to ethical practices in the numismatic world. His vigilance ensured the stolen treasure returned to its rightful owner, leaving an inspiring legacy for both collectors and coin dealers.
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