Porch Pirates in 2025: Why Trading Card Packages Go Missing and What Actually Stops Them

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Porch Pirates in 2025: Why Trading Card Packages Go Missing and What Actually Stops Them You refresh tracking for the tenth time. “Delivered.” You open the door. Nothing. For collectors, that sick feeling hits hard. The truth is, package theft is organized, fast, and if you do nothing predictable. Let’s map out how thieves really operate and the moves that keep your slabs and sealed boxes safe. How packages disappear in the real world 1) The pre-scan window Drivers sometimes scan a package as delivered a few minutes before they hit your stop to speed the route. Thieves know this. They trail vans or scrape tracking feeds and sweep porches right after a scan. That creates a tiny window where your box is “delivered,” but sitting unattended for a few crucial minutes. 2) Misdelivery that looks like theft In apartments or townhomes, a parcel can land at the wrong unit, lobby, or mailroom shelf. You see “delivered,” check your doorstep, and assume a thief. In real...
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DID YOU KNOW #1 - Topps Hocus Focus needs water?

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This Was Always My Favorite Part – Did You Know?

As the first fun fact in what I hope becomes a long-running series, let’s rewind to one of Topps’ most curious creations: the Hocus Focus Magic Photo cards.

From the very beginning, trading card producers knew that cards weren’t just collectibles—they were marketing tools. To stay ahead of the game, companies like Topps had to innovate. Cigarette cards had their time, but the 1940s needed something new.

1948 Topps Hocus Focus wrapper

🃏 Blank Cards With a Twist?

Imagine opening a pack and seeing... nothing. Blank cards. But no misprint here! In 1948–49, Topps released a set where the magic only appeared with water and a special blue "magic paper" overlay. After wetting the card and applying the paper, an image of a player or actor would reveal itself—like a cardboard sorcery trick.

🗂️ The Set and Checklist

The full set included 252 photo cards across sports (baseball, football, basketball, boxing) and entertainment (movie stars, famous figures, landmarks). Topps even produced a beautiful storage album with a full checklist for collectors.

Topps Hocus Focus album

🔁 A Brilliant Idea That Fizzled Out

The concept was innovative and engaging, but Topps only revisited the Hocus Focus cards twice—in 1955 and 1957. Since then, they've remained a quirky piece of collecting history.

Topps Hocus Focus cards example

There’s not much left of those original Hocus Focus gums… but would anyone actually dare to chew one now? 😅 Whether you collect these for nostalgia, rarity, or curiosity, this set is proof that Topps has always been one step ahead in the hobby.

👉 Browse Hocus Focus listings on eBay

Do you own one of these cards? Or maybe even the album? Let us know in the comments below!

Sources:

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