Actually, I've flown DTW to Montreal as well, and by checking/gate checking electronics you DID break the rules. They're very clear that you are not supposed to check those items.

Did you ask anyone or did you just assume? I've always been told the exact opposite of you IF you did ask. You make your own theory about what the "idea" is about making you gate check your electronics, which suggests to me that you didn't ask anyone in authority to re-check the rules. Northwest takes NO liability for electronics, and they tell you specifically to keep those items with you. Even a CRJ700 had a place to stow your camera lenses IF you prove to the FA that's what you're holding.


Be that as it may, I think something nefarious did happen, since your coins were missing. Sorry to be mean to your "400$ headphones" but there is no such thing. There are headphones that people paid that much for, and who knows why, but they sure don't have that resale value to a thief. Apparently, the coins that were scooped out of the bag were considered more valuable. My feelings would be almost a little hurt, except that I'm just as glad when my bag ends up being rejected by the wanna-be thief.

You are not entitled to compensation, as you got the items back. I've never gotten compensation in that situation. I guess you can try being the squeaky wheel but in that case, you're not getting compensation for having your coins taken but rather just for being a squeaky wheel. Just my opinion and my experience. But the missing coins make it pretty clear that at some point a bad guy went through your bag. Coins don't spontaneously disappear into the 9th dimension, do they?