In the world of collectibles, such as trading cards, there are two distinct types of people: those who collect cards for the love of the hobby and appreciate their sentimental value, and those who view them as mere commodities to be bought and sold for profit. Obscure niche players from the 2000's are seeing all time highs for cards that only surface once a year and in some cases, a decade. There is an end collector actively seeking these cards and not looking to flip. Since January 1st, 2023 (all parallels) these key rookie cards have sold an absurd number of times which do not reflect their scarcity.

Doncic 2018 National Treasures Rookie Patch Auto /1-/99: 10 sales
Mahomes 2017 National Treasures Rookie Patch Auto /1-/99: 24 sales
Brady 2000 Contenders Championship Ticket Auto /100: 7 sales

While both approaches have their merits, a market with a collectors' base holds several advantages over one driven by individuals constantly looking to flip cards for financial gain. Here are 4 reasons, why I feel that is;

Long-term Stability: A collectors market tends to be more stable and less susceptible to sudden price fluctuations. When collectors acquire cards, they often do so with the intention of holding onto them for an extended period, allowing the market to develop naturally over time. This stability fosters confidence among collectors, as they can focus on building their collections without constantly worrying about the market's volatility.

Community: Collecting trading cards is not just about the cards themselves; it's also about the community that forms around the hobby. Collectors often engage in social activities, including social media, forums, visiting card shops, and attending local shows. These interactions foster a sense of community amongst people who have a shared interest. This shared enthusiasm, provides opportunities for collectors to exchange knowledge, insights, and even cards. The community aspect adds an enriching and enjoyable dimension to the hobby that goes beyond monetary transactions. The foundation of Card Ladder is Chris, Josh, & Kristina's frienship, for many collectors what started out as collecting cards has developed into life-long friendships .

Personal Fulfillment: Collecting cards is a deeply personal endeavor for many enthusiasts. It allows them to connect with their childhood memories, express their individual tastes and interests, and curate a collection that reflects their unique personality. The intrinsic value of the cards lies in the joy and satisfaction they bring to the collector, regardless of their market price. This personal fulfillment is priceless and sets collectors apart from those solely focused on financial gains.

Accessibility: In a market driven by collectors, the hobby becomes more accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts. While cards with high financial value may exist, collectors often appreciate the diversity and beauty of various cards, including those that may not hold significant monetary worth. This inclusive mindset opens up the hobby to individuals who may not have substantial financial resources but can still enjoy collecting and participating in the community.

It's important to note that collectors and flippers can coexist in a market. However, a market with a strong collectors' base brings stability, preservation of history, a sense of community, personal fulfillment, and increased accessibility to the forefront, fostering a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem for trading card enthusiasts.