Sounds like a crime of opportunity as i doubt planning went into something like it being right next to your wife and someone happened to grab it.
Be extremely careful around crowded places and don't keep your cash in an outside pocket , there are groups that work in unison and they are exceptionally effective at stealing just about anything valuable , i was watching a show awhile back and it demonstrated how thieves work .
One thief wanted to demonstrate his technique by stealing a belt that one guy was wearing without the guy knowing it , i couldn't believe it , the guy wearing it said he didn't feel a thing , now that's good.
Opening up a purse if it's on the outside of your body even when it's closed is exceptionally easy for these pro's and they make it a habit to be in the crowd where ever crowds gather , thats their bread and butter.
Last year at a Fishing Tackle trade show thieves were able to lift over five g's in merchandise even though the items were behind counters and protective glass , happens every year , at least you got a new one so all is good.
