COLLECTIBLE CONTAINER WITH PREFORMED CUSTOMIZABLE WINDOW REGION COMPRISING PREDEFINED REMOVABLE SUB-REGIONS OF MATERIAL

Abstract

A collectible container having at least one preformed customizable window region comprising one or more predefined removable sub-regions of material is disclosed. With the disclosed collectible container, a user may selectively remove a given sub-region (or group thereof) manually and/or mechanically, for instance, in a pick-and-pluck manner. The user, thus, may produce opening(s) of intentionally limited shape and size which selectively expose targeted area(s) of a collectible within the collectible container, for example, where a signature or other personalization may be desired, while still affording protection against damage for areas of the collectible not so targeted. The disclosed collectible container may be configured, for example, as a bag, sleeve, page preserver or sheet protector with one or more internal and/or external pockets, top-loader or side-loader protector, pouch, frame, case, box, or any other container suitable for a given collectible, as will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A collectible container comprising: a main body portion defining an interior space configured to receive a collectible, wherein the main body portion has defined therein a first region comprising a first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a first opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the first opening to a first surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

2. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions of the first region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

3. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is provided in an array or matrix configuration comprising a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, with each row comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions and each column comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions.

4. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions of the first region includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual removal of said at least one predefined removable sub-region from the collectible container by a user.

5. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein the first region is at least partially defined in the main body portion by a series of perforations formed in a constituent material of the main body portion.

6. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein the first region is at least partially defined in the main body portion by localized thinning of a constituent material of the main body portion.

7. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein the main body portion comprises a first body portion having the first region defined therein.

8. The collectible container of claim 7, wherein the first body portion comprises a perimeter portion at least partially surrounding the first region and configured to cover at least a portion of the first surface of the collectible.

9. The collectible container of claim 7, further comprising a cover portion connected to the main body portion and configured to cover the first region, wherein the cover portion is configured to be folded or laid over the first body portion.

10. The collectible container of claim 7, wherein: the first body portion further has defined therein a second region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to the first surface of the collectible received by the interior space; and in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

11. The collectible container of claim 7, wherein the main body portion further comprises a second body portion situated opposite the first body portion such that the interior space is defined between the first body portion and the second body portion.

12. The collectible container of claim 11, wherein: the second body portion has defined therein a second region comprising a second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to a second surface of the collectible received by the interior space; and in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions of the second region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

13. The collectible container of claim 12, wherein the second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is provided in an array or matrix configuration comprising a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, with each row comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions and each column comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions.

14. The collectible container of claim 12, further comprising a cover portion connected to the main body portion and configured to cover the second region, wherein the cover portion is configured to be folded or laid over the second body portion.

15. The collectible container of claim 1, further comprising a retaining feature connected to the main body portion and configured to facilitate retention of the collectible within the interior space, wherein the retaining feature is a tab configured to be folded or laid over and received within the interior space.

16. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein: the main body portion comprises at least one of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, cellophane, and a bioplastic; and the collectible container is configured as a bag, a sleeve, a page preserver, or a sheet protector.

17. The collectible container of claim 1, wherein: the main body portion comprises at least one of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, cellophane, and a bioplastic; and the collectible container is configured as a top-loader protector or a side-loader protector.

18. A collectible container comprising: a main body portion comprising: a first body portion; and a second body portion situated opposite the first body portion such that an interior space configured to receive a collectible is defined between the first body portion and the second body portion; wherein the first body portion has defined therein a first region comprising a first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a first opening defined in the first body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the first opening to a first surface of the collectible received by the interior space; wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is provided in an array or matrix configuration comprising a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, with each row comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions and each column comprising at least one of the predefined removable sub-regions; wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device; and wherein the first region is at least partially defined in the first body portion by at least one of: a series of perforations formed in a constituent material of the first body portion; and localized thinning of the constituent material of the first body portion.

19. The collectible container of claim 18, wherein the second body portion has defined therein a second region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the second body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to a second surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

20. The collectible container of claim 18, further comprising: a cover portion operatively coupled with the main body portion and configured to cover at least one of the first body portion and the second body portion; and a retaining feature operatively coupled with the main body portion and configured to facilitate retention of the collectible within the interior space.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a collectible container configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 2A illustrates an example case in which a grouping of sub-regions has been removed to produce a single opening in a first body portion of a collectible container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2B illustrates an example case in which two separate groups of sub-regions have been removed to produce two separate openings in a first body portion of a collectible container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 2C illustrates an example case in which a group of sub-regions has been removed to produce a single opening in a first body portion of a collectible container which spans the full available width of a region associated with such sub-regions, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 2D illustrates an example case in which a group of sub-regions has been removed to produce a single opening in a first body portion of a collectible container which spans the full available height/length of a region associated with such sub-regions, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 2E illustrates an example case in which all available sub-regions have been removed to produce a single opening in a first body portion of a collectible container which spans the full available width and height/length of a region associated with such sub-regions, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 3A illustrates a view of a collectible container optionally including a cover portion and a retaining feature configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3B illustrates a view of a collectible container optionally including a cover portion and a retaining feature configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 3C illustrates a view of a collectible container optionally including two cover portions and a retaining feature configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 3D illustrates a view of a collectible container optionally including two cover portions and a retaining feature configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 3E illustrates a view of a collectible container optionally including two cover portions and a retaining feature configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] These and other features of the present embodiments will be understood better by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the figures herein described. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures may be represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. Furthermore, as will be appreciated in light of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale or to limit the described embodiments to the specific configurations shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] A collectible container having at least one preformed customizable window region comprising one or more predefined removable sub-regions of material is disclosed. With the disclosed collectible container, a user may selectively remove a given sub-region (or group thereof) manually and/or mechanically, for instance, in a pick-and-pluck manner. The user, thus, may produce opening(s) of intentionally limited shape and size which selectively expose targeted area(s) of a collectible within the collectible container, for example, where a signature or other personalization may be desired, while still affording protection against damage for areas of the collectible not so targeted. The disclosed collectible container may be configured, for example, as a bag, sleeve, page preserver or sheet protector with one or more internal and/or external pockets, top-loader or side-loader protector, pouch, frame, case, box, or any other container suitable for a given collectible, as will be apparent in light of this disclosure. Numerous configurations and variations of the disclosed collectible container will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

General Overview

[0041] For many collectors, preservation of the integrity of a collectible is of paramount importance. This concern exists not only during the process of obtaining and storing a collectible but also while having any parties sign or personalize the collectible and (optionally) while having a grading company inspect and grade the collectible. Moreover, protection of the collectible is desirable at all stages of shipping and handling of the collectible. Damage to the collectible at any point in the chain of custody can reduce the market value of the collectible dramatically, in some instances even rendering it worthless.

[0042] To have a party sign or personalize a collectible, the collector or some third-party facilitator may take the collectible to a convention, private event, or the like where that party may sign or personalize accordingly, often for a fee. At many such venues, representatives of a grading company may be present and, for a fee, may serve as a certified witness who can attest to the authenticity of the signature or personalization on the collectible in question. In many instances, this is critical during the grading process, as without the signature or personalization being witnessed by a proper representative, the collectible may be considered defaced or damaged by the marking (e.g., for lack of verified authenticity), greatly harming or even negating its market value. Alternatively, the collector or facilitator may send a collectible directly to a grading company, for instance, for an in-house signature event, with the collectible subsequently undergoing grading and preservation by that company. In still other instances, a collector or facilitator may send a collectible directly to a party intended to sign or personalize the collectible, which party in turn may send the resultant collectible to a grading company with some form of accompanying attestation form substantiating the authenticity of the signature or personalization.

[0043] One existing approach to protecting collectibles such as comic books, magazines, prints, photographs, and trading cards (among others) during the signing or personalization process is to use a so-called premade window bag. With a premade window bag, a user may insert the collectible therein, and a single large area of the front surface of the collectible may remain exposed by virtue of a single large window of material which has been omitted from the window bag during manufacturing upstream of the user. However, such existing premade window bags suffer from several notable deficiencies. For example, because of its large open window, existing premade window bags expose much more of the surface of the collectible to potential damage than is strictly necessary during the typically brief process of obtaining a signature or personalization. With such a large area of the collectible exposed, there is a greater risk of damage (e.g., scratches, folds, spine ticks, stains, dents, smears, etc.) thereto at the hands of any of the numerous individuals involvedthe party making the signature or personalization, assistant(s), facilitator(s), and even the collector himself/herself. With existing premade window bags, ink smudges and fingerprints, as well as scratches and dents from clothing or jewelry, are unfortunately common, all detracting from the highest grade that the collectible otherwise could have received. Furthermore, the large open window leaves the decision about the exact location and size of the signature or personalization up to the party providing it, and that freedom of choice may not be preferable to the collector (or a future potential buyer/owner) in some instances. For example, in haste to process so many signature or personalization requests at a signing event or venue, the party might sign or personalize an area of a collectible that is not particularly pleasing for display purposes (e.g., obscuring an illustrated character, effacing a remarque or a hand-colored feature, etc.) or otherwise is considered undesirable. Perhaps the party might even unwittingly ruin another signature or personalization obtained on the collectible at an earlier time. In all such cases, the value and appeal of the collectible may be irreparably harmed.

[0044] Another existing approach to protecting a collectible during the signing or personalization process is to simply modify a standard comic book or magazine bag by intentionally cutting one or more windows therein with a knife or pair of scissors. These user-cut window(s) function in much the same way as described above in relation to the premade window bags, with the added benefit of allowing the user to align and control the area of the collectible targeted for signature or personalization. However, this approach also suffers from several noteworthy deficiencies. For instance, the process of manually cutting out windows requires placement first of a backing layer within the bag before cutting, to ensure that the knife or scissors do not cut all the way through both sides of the bag. Of course, the collectible also must not be present in the bag while cutting the window(s), and so it must be stored elsewhere temporarily, which can expose the collectible to damage risks while handling and storing it. Additionally, a collector often will mark off a region of the bag with masking tape and, using a razor and straightedge of some type, cut through the single side and remove the unwanted material to produce a single window. As such, there is risk that the masking tape might accidentally transfer adhesive residue to the window bag, which in turn could be transferred to an exposed surface of the collectible. Thus, users must remove the tape after forming any window(s), but adhesive residue often remains. Again, it is best practice to ensure that the collectible is not present in the bag during this phase either. As will be appreciated, the process of taping, hand-cutting windows, un-taping, and moving collectibles around is time-consuming and risky, especially when repeated in producing many windows across a multitude of standard-issue comic book or magazine bags.

[0045] Thus, and in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a collectible container having at least one preformed customizable window region comprising one or more predefined removable sub-regions of material is disclosed. With the disclosed collectible container, a user may selectively remove a given sub-region (or group thereof) manually and/or mechanically, for instance, in a pick-and-pluck manner. The user, thus, may produce opening(s) of intentionally limited shape and size which selectively expose targeted area(s) of a collectible within the collectible container, for example, where a signature or other personalization may be desired, while still affording protection against damage for areas of the collectible not so targeted. The disclosed collectible container may be configured, for example, as a bag, sleeve, page preserver or sheet protector with one or more internal and/or external pockets, top-loader or side-loader protector, pouch, frame, case, box, or any other container suitable for a given collectible, as will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0046] As will be appreciated in light of this disclosure, the disclosed collectible container may be configured for use with any of a wide range of physical collectibles (or tangible items more generally). For instance, some embodiments may be configured for use with various paper, plastic, or metal media, such as comic books, graphic novels, magazines, paperback books, hardcover books, programs, trading cards, printed photographs, art prints, posters, banners, pennants, concert ticket stubs, and wraps, to name a few. Some embodiments may be configured for use with disc-based or cartridge-based media, such as digital discs (e.g., DVD, Blu-Ray, etc.), video games, vinyl records, and cassette tapes, or other rigid media, such as challenge coins and wooden nickels, or the cases, boxes, or slipcovers of any such items. Numerous suitable uses and applications of the disclosed collectible container will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0047] As compared to existing approaches, the disclosed collectible container may solve one or more of the non-trivial complications discussed above which are traditionally present in the process of having a given collectible signed or personalized. For instance, the ability to easily, rapidly, accurately, and consistently produce one or more open windows of intentionally limited exposure for a collectible while simultaneously protecting the remainder of the collectible from damage may provide users with a greater degree of confidence in preserving the overall integrity of the collectible than is offered by existing approaches. Moreover, the ability to specifically locate and fix an open window in relation to a collectible may provide users with a greater degree of control over where (and how) a party is permitted to sign or otherwise personalize the collectible with greater ease than is offered by existing approaches. Additionally, with the disclosed container, the use of tape, cutting implements, and cutting surfaces may be avoided. Further still, a user may generate window(s) more rapidly and safely than with cutting-based approaches, making the disclosed container suitable for use even by children. Other benefits and advantages associated with the disclosed collectible container will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

Structure and Operation

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a collectible container 10 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, container 10 may be configured to receive and retain at least one collectible on a temporary or permanent basis, as desired. As can be seen from FIG. 1, container 10 generally may be configured, in some embodiments, as a bag or sleeve. The present disclosure it not intended to be so limited, however, as in some other embodiments, container 10 may be configured, for example, as a page preserver or a sheet protector with one or more internal and/or external pockets (e.g., such as those typically used for retaining photographs, trading cards, prints, etc.), a top-loader or side-loader protector, a pouch, a frame, a case, a box, or any other holder or vessel suitable for a given collectible, as will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0049] As can be seen further from FIG. 1, container 10 may include a main body portion 100 formed from (or otherwise including) a first body portion 110 and a second body portion 130. A given body portion 110, 130 may be configured, for example, as a film, sheet, panel, layer, ply, wall, or other span of material, which may be continuous or discontinuous in form, as desired. Generally, an interior space 140 may be defined between body portions 110, 130. To that end, body portions 110, 130 may be situated substantially opposite one another (e.g., as the front and rear sides of main body portion 100). In at least some instances, either (or both) of body portions 110, 130 may be substantially flat or planar in form and/or topography (e.g., exhibiting external and/or internal surface flatness).

[0050] In some embodiments, main body portion 100 may be of polylithic construction, with its constituent body portions 110, 130 beginning as separate pieces that are then joined together (e.g., fused or otherwise connected) at any one (or combination) of shared edges 122, 124, and 126 in a manner which leaves main body portion 100 with at least one open end 120 that opens into interior space 140. In some other embodiments, main body portion 100 may be of monolithic construction, with its constituent body portions 110, 130 being formed integrally with one another (e.g., as a single, unitary, and/or continuous workpiece) in a manner which leaves main body portion 100 with at least one open end 120 that opens into interior space 140. In either case, a collectible may be received by interior space 140 through the at least one open end 120. The specific side or edge (e.g., top, bottom, left, right, etc.) of main body portion 100 at which the at least one open end 120 may be provided, as well as the quantity and adjacency (if any) of all included open end(s) 120, may be customized, as desired.

[0051] As can be seen further from FIG. 1, container 10 may include at least one preformed customizable window region 170 comprising one or more predefined removable sub-regions 172 delineated in the constituent material(s) from which main body portion 100 is constructed. In some cases, a given body portion 110, 130 may include only a single region 170, whereas in other cases, a plurality of separate and distinct regions 170 may be provided. A given region 170 may comprise either a single sub-region 172 or a plurality thereof. Removal of sub-region(s) 172 of a given region 170 may produce one or more openings 180 (e.g., windows, through-holes, passages, apertures, etc.) defined in main body portion 100 which open (e.g., directly) into interior space 140, providing limited exposure of and access to any collectible disposed within interior space 140.

[0052] The geometry and dimensions of a given region 170 or sub-region 172 may be customized, as desired (e.g., at the time of manufacturing collectible container 10, upstream of the user). In some cases, a given region 170 or sub-region 172 may be of generally polygonal geometry (e.g., a triangle, rectangle, square, parallelogram, rhombus, trapezoid, pentagon, hexagon, or other desired polygonal shape). In some cases, a given region 170 or sub-region 172 may be of generally curved geometry (e.g., a circle, ellipse, arc, semi-circle, semi-ellipse, closed-curve, open-curve, or other desired curved shape). In some cases, a first portion of a given region 170 or sub-region 172 may be of generally polygonal geometry (e.g., substantially rectangular or square), whereas a second portion thereof may be of generally curved geometry (e.g., a semi-circle or semi-ellipse). Other suitable geometries and dimensions for a given region 170 or sub-region 172 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0053] In cases where a given region 170 comprises a plurality of sub-regions 172, the quantity, density, and arrangement of such plurality may be customized, as desired (e.g., at the time of manufacturing container 10, upstream of the user). Generally, for a given region 170 having a plurality of sub-regions 172, such plurality may be distributed (in part or in whole) as either: (A) a regular array in which all (or some sub-set) of sub-regions 172 are arranged in a systematic manner in relation to one another; (B) an irregular array in which all (or some sub-set) of sub-regions 172 are not arranged in a systematic manner in relation to one another; or (C) a semi-regular array in which a sub-set of sub-regions 172 are arranged in a systematic manner in relation to one another but at least one other sub-region 172 is not so arranged. Consequently, many uniform and non-uniform arrangements of sub-regions 172, including linear, concentric, eccentric, geometric, and still others, are envisioned as possibilities in manufacturing container 10.

[0054] In accordance with some embodiments, sub-regions 172 of a given region 170 may be formed in a matrix arrangement defined by one or more rows and one or more columns. In some embodiments, a two-dimensional array of sub-regions 172 may be provided (e.g., extending in any two of the available x, y, and z dimensions of main body portion 100). In some other embodiments, a three-dimensional array of sub-regions 172 may be provided (e.g., extending in each of the available x, y, and z dimensions of main body portion 100).

[0055] In accordance with some embodiments, a tiling or tessellation pattern of sub-regions 172 may be provided in a given region 170. In some instances, constituent sub-regions 172 of a given region 170 may be substantially linearly aligned with one another in one or more directions, forming a grid, checkerboard, or diamond pattern, for example. In some other instances, constituent sub-regions 172 of a given region 170 may be staggered or offset in alignment from one another to a given degree, forming, for example, a brickwork pattern (horizontal, vertical, or staggered), a herringbone pattern, or a basketweave pattern, among other options. Numerous patterns, both regular and semi-regular, are envisioned as possibilities in manufacturing container 10.

[0056] In some embodiments, a given region 170 may include only a single type (e.g., in terms of shape and/or size) of sub-regions 172; that is, such a region 170 may have a homogeneous plurality of constituent sub-regions 172. In some other embodiments, a given region 170 may include two or more different types (e.g., in terms of shape and/or size) of sub-regions 172; that is, such a region 170 may have a heterogeneous plurality of constituent sub-regions 172. Groupings of homogeneity and heterogeneity among constituent sub-regions 172 of a given region 170 may be provided as desired.

[0057] A given region 170, inclusive of its one or more sub-region(s) 172, may be formed in container 10 (e.g., upstream of any would-be user) via any of a wide range of suitable manufacturing techniques, as will be apparent in light of this disclosure. Some example suitable techniques may include perforation, localized thinning of material, segmentation, thermal-forming, scribing, die cutting, and laser cutting, to name a few options. Other suitable techniques for delineating region(s) 170 and sub-region(s) 172 in a given body portion 110, 130 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0058] In the use of container 10, a given sub-region 172 may be configured for extraction from main body portion 100 by a user using one or more pick-and-pluck techniques. For instance, in accordance with some embodiments, a user may manually extract a given sub-region 172 (or group thereof) from main body portion 100 by hand alone (e.g., without the use of any additional tool or intervening device). As a non-limiting example, a user may grip a given sub-region 172 between the thumb and index or other finger and, using a pinching, pulling, twisting, and/or tearing action, effectuate manual removal of such sub-region 172 from main body portion 100 with precision and tidiness. As an alternative, a user may employ a hand tool or other manually operated device (e.g., tweezers, pliers, forceps, tongs, grippers, pincers, clamps, etc.) to effectuate mechanically assisted extraction of a given sub-region 172 from main body portion 100, in accordance with some embodiments. As will be appreciated, such pick-and-pluck removal techniques may be performed by the user at the level of an individual sub-region 172 or at the level of a plurality (e.g., a contiguous grouping) of sub-regions 172, as desired. Moreover, removal of sub-region(s) 172 in this manner may produce opening(s) 180 which exhibit one or more substantially clean edges.

[0059] In cases where a plurality of regions 170 are present for a given body portion 110, 130, any two regions 170 optionally may be physically separated from one another by one or more intervening strips or barriers of the constituent material(s) from which main body portion 100 is constructed. In this manner, a first region 170 may be physically isolated from a second region 170 by a span of material which is not configured or intended for manual and/or mechanically assisted extraction like sub-section(s) 172. When present, such an intervening strip or barrier of material may help with retaining the general form of a given body portion 110, 130 (or container 10 more generally). In at least some cases, a given intervening strip or barrier of material may be formed integrally with a given perimeter portion 190 (discussed below) at one or more locations. As will be appreciated, the quantity and shape of any such intervening strips or barriers of material may be customized, as desired. In at least some instances, such an intervening strip or barrier may serve as a baffle, rip-stop, or other obstruction which can prevent accidental removal of untargeted sub-sections 172 by a user.

[0060] As can be seen further from FIG. 1, either or both of body portions 110, 130 may include at least one perimeter portion 190. A given perimeter portion 190 may be configured, in a general sense, as a frame, border, mat, or bezel that at least partially covers any collectible disposed within interior space 140, facilitating physical retention and protection of one or more edges or surfaces of such collectible. In accordance with some embodiments, portion(s) of the collectible covered by a given perimeter portion 190 may lie wholly outside the footprint of any included region(s) 170 or any opening(s) 180 formed by a user. In accordance with some other embodiments, one or more segments of a given perimeter portion 190 may comprise sub-region(s) 172 which, if ultimately removed by a user, effectively delete such segment(s) of that perimeter portion 190 from the structure of main body portion 100. Otherwise stated, in some cases, container 10 may be formed with sub-region(s) 172 that extend all the way to a given edge or side of main body portion 100, forming a removable section of a given perimeter portion 190.

[0061] The geometry and dimensions of a given perimeter portion 190 may be customized, as desired. In some cases, a given perimeter portion 190 may be of generally polygonal geometry (e.g., a triangle, rectangle, square, parallelogram, rhombus, trapezoid, pentagon, hexagon, or other desired polygonal shape). In some cases, a given perimeter portion 190 may be of generally curved geometry (e.g., a circle, ellipse, arc, semi-circle, semi-ellipse, closed-curve, open-curve, or other desired curved shape). In some cases, a first portion of a given perimeter portion 190 may be of generally polygonal geometry (e.g., substantially rectangular or square), whereas a second portion thereof may be of generally curved geometry (e.g., a semi-circle or semi-ellipse). In some cases, a given perimeter portion 190 may have two or more edges or boundaries which run substantially parallel to one another. In some other cases, perpendicular or angled (e.g., acute angle, right angle, or obtuse angle) edges or boundaries may be provided. In some instances, a given perimeter portion 190 may be generally U-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped, D-shaped, or O-shaped, among other options. Other suitable geometries and dimensions for perimeter portion(s) 190 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0062] As previously noted, container 10 may be configured, in accordance with some embodiments, such that one or more individual sub-regions 172 (or groups thereof) may be removed to produce one or more openings 180 in a given body portion 110, 130, which open into the volume of interior space 140. For example, consider FIG. 2A, which illustrates an example case in which a grouping of sub-regions 172 has been removed to produce a single opening 180 in first body portion 110 of container 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As can be seen in this specific example case, a 33 grouping of sub-regions 172 of region 170 has been removed to produce an opening 180 which locally and selectively exposes a targeted area of a collectible situated within interior space 140. Meanwhile, other sub-regions 172 of region 170 remain intact, covering and protecting the remainder of the collectible not so exposed by the user-produced opening 180. Of course, as will be appreciated, smaller groupings (e.g., down to a single sub-region 172, as a 11 grouping) or larger groupings of sub-regions 172 additionally or alternatively may be removed, as desired. As envisioned in accordance with the present disclosure, a party thus may sign or personalize the collectible through such opening 180 with minimal (or otherwise reduced) risk of damage to non-targeted areas of the collectible.

[0063] Container 10 may be configured, in accordance with some embodiments, to allow a user to fully customize the quantity, location, size, and shape of opening(s) 180 downstream of manufacturing to accommodate a given collectible of interest. For instance, consider FIG. 2B, which illustrates an example case in which two separate groups of sub-regions 172 have been removed to produce two separate openings 180 in first body portion 110 of container 10, in accordance with an embodiment. As can be seen in this specific example case, both a 33 grouping of sub-regions 172 and a separate 42 grouping of sub-regions 172 have been removed from a region 170, producing two separate openings 180 that correspondingly expose two different areas of a collectible within interior space 140. Again, smaller or larger groupings of sub-regions 172 additionally or alternatively may be removed, as desired.

[0064] Further consider FIG. 2C, which illustrates an example case in which a group of sub-regions 172 has been removed to produce a single opening 180 in first body portion 110 of container 10 which spans the full available width of a region 170 associated with such sub-regions 172, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally consider FIG. 2D, which illustrates an example case in which a group of sub-regions 172 has been removed to produce a single opening 180 in first body portion 110 of container 10 which spans the full available height/length of a region 170 associated with such sub-regions 172, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Also consider FIG. 2E, which illustrates an example case in which all available sub-regions 172 have been removed to produce a single opening 180 in first body portion 110 of container 10 which spans the full available width and height/length of a region 170 associated with such sub-regions 172, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Numerous possible configurations and variations will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0065] In accordance with some embodiments, container 10 optionally may include one or more cover portions 200. For instance, consider FIG. 3A-3E, which illustrate several views of a collectible container 10 configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, a given cover portion 200 may serve, at least in part, to cover and thus protect any portion(s) of a collectible which have been exposed via opening(s) 180 produced in a given region 170 of a given body portion 110, 130.

[0066] In some embodiments, a given cover portion 200 may be configured to pivot about a given edge 122, 124, 126 of main body portion 100, with such shared edge 122, 124, 126 serving as a hinge point for that cover portion 200 in one or more directions. Accordingly, a given cover portion 200 may be configured to be folded or laid over so as to overlap a given side of main body portion 100 (e.g., to cover either body portion 110, 130, as desired). In some embodiments, at least two cover portions 200 may be situated substantially opposite one another relative to main body portion 100 such that they may be folded or laid over (A) to overlap one another on a single side of main body portion 100 or (B) in opposite directions to overlap opposing sides of main body portion 100.

[0067] In some embodiments, a given cover portion 200 may be configured to pivot about a given edge 202 which is shared with another cover portion 200, with such shared edge 202 serving as a hinge point therefor. Accordingly, one such cover portion 200 may be configured to be folded or laid over so as to overlap one side of main body portion 100 (e.g., to cover either body portion 110, 130, as desired), while the other cover portion 200 may continue on to be folded or laid over so as to overlap the other side of main body portion 100 (e.g., to cover the other of either body portion 110, 130, as desired), thereby partially or fully wrapping around main body portion 100.

[0068] As can be seen further from FIG. 3A-3E, container 10 optionally may include one or more retaining features 150, in accordance with some embodiments. Generally, a given retaining feature 150 may serve, at least in part, to facilitate physical retention of a collectible situated within interior space 140 of container 10.

[0069] In some embodiments, a given retaining feature 150 may be configured to pivot about a given edge of main body portion 100 (e.g., at open end 120), with such shared edge serving as a hinge point for that retaining feature 150. In accordance with some embodiments, a given retaining feature 150 may be configured to be folded or laid over and/or into open end 120 to effectuate at least partial closing or occlusion of open end 120. In an example case, a retaining feature 150 may be inserted through open end 120 and extend at least partially into interior space 140, where such retaining feature 150 is held in place at least via physical contact (e.g., a friction fit) with main body portion 100 (e.g., at a perimeter portion 190 or other portion of a given body portion 110, 130).

[0070] A given cover portion 200 and/or retaining feature 150 may be formed (in part or in whole) as a film, sheet, panel, layer, ply, wall, or other span of material, which may be continuous or discontinuous in form, as desired. In some cases, a given cover portion 200 or retaining feature 150 may be generally configured as a flap which extends outward from main body portion 100 in one or more directions. In some embodiments, container 10 may be of polylithic construction, with its constituent main body portion 100 and any optionally included cover portion(s) 200 and/or retaining feature(s) 150 beginning as separate pieces that are then joined together (e.g., fused or otherwise connected) at a given side or edge of main body portion 100. In some embodiments, container 10 may be of monolithic construction, with its constituent main body portion 100 and any optionally included cover portion(s) 200 and/or retaining feature(s) 150 being formed integrally with one another (e.g., as a single, unitary, and/or continuous workpiece). The specific side or edge (e.g., top, bottom, left, right, etc.) of main body portion 100 at which a given cover portion 200 and/or retaining feature 150 may be provided may be customized, as desired. Moreover, the dimensions and geometry of a given cover portion 200 and/or retaining feature 150, as well as the quantity and arrangement of any thereof, may be customized, as desired.

[0071] In accordance with some embodiments, an adhesive material and/or a mechanical fastener (e.g., a clip, tab, snap, button, toggle, etc.) optionally may be disposed on one or more surfaces of a given retaining feature 150, cover portion 200, and/or region of container 10 where a given retaining feature 150 or cover portion 200 is to interface with main body portion 100. In some such cases, a corresponding receiver feature (e.g., a slot, slit, retainer, loop, eye, etc.) may be provided as well at appropriate location(s) of container 10.

[0072] In accordance with some embodiments, a given portion or feature of container 10 may be provided with one or more surface textures or finishes which facilitate manipulation by a user. For instance, in some cases, surface roughing, ribbing, striping, dimpling, hatching, cross-hatching, radial patterning, circular patterning, or the like may be provided on a given region 170, sub-region 172, retaining feature 150, perimeter portion 190, and/or cover portion 200. As will be appreciated, it may be desirable, at least in some instances, to ensure that any such surface texturing is provided only on an exterior surface of container 10 and not on an interior surface which might physically contact a collectible within interior space 140, so as to avoid possible damage (e.g., abrasion, indenting, etc.) to the collectible within container 10.

[0073] As will be further appreciated in light of this disclosure, the material construction of container 10 (or any given constituent component thereof) may be customized, as desired for a given target application or end-use. In accordance with some embodiments, container 10 may be at least partially constructed from material(s) which are flexible, durable, and/or resilient. In some embodiments, container 10 may be constructed from a polymer (e.g., a plastic or polymer-based material) or composite. Some examples of suitable construction materials may include any one (or combination) of: polypropylene; polyethylene (low-density or high-density); polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE); biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BoPET) (e.g., MYLAR polyester film available from DuPont Teijin Films or comparable); acrylic; polycarbonate; acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); regenerated cellulose (e.g., cellophane); and/or a bioplastic. In some embodiments, container 10 may be constructed from a biodegradable and/or compostable material. Other suitable construction materials for container 10 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0074] In accordance with some embodiments, container 10 may be at least partially constructed from a material that is transparent (e.g., semi-transparent or fully transparent) or translucent. This may help a user to quickly and accurately determine visually (A) whether and which collectible is present within container 10 and (B) how that collectible is positioned within interior space 140 with respect to a given region 170, sub-region 172, perimeter portion 190, etc. In turn, this may facilitate rapid determination by the user of precisely which sub-region(s) 172 align with a given targeted area of the collectible and, therefore, should be removed from container 10 to intentionally expose that area. In some embodiments, a given portion of container 10 optionally may be colored with one or more colors (e.g., color-coded) and/or patterned with one or more patterns (e.g., stippling, cross-hatching, hatching, etc.).

[0075] In some embodiments, container 10 may be at least partially of film-based construction. In some embodiments, container 10 may be at least partially of non-woven construction (e.g., a non-woven plastic or composite material), though woven constructions additionally or alternatively may be used. In accordance with some embodiments, container 10 may be constructed, in part or in whole, from a material that is any one (or combination) of the following: (i) non-porous; (ii) resistant to environmental hazards, such as dust, moisture, heat, and/or cold; (iii) resistant to sunlight and/or ultraviolet radiation; (iv) hydrophobic, oleophobic, and/or lipophobic; (v) resilient or otherwise resistant to deformation (e.g., folding, creasing, warping, denting, bulging, etc.), tearing, and/or ripping; and (vi) impact-resistant and/or imprint-resistant.

[0076] As will be further appreciated in light of this disclosure, the overall dimensions and geometry of container 10 may be customized, as desired for a given target application or end-use. In accordance with some embodiments, container 10 may be of any suitable size and geometry, for example, for receiving and retaining any one (or combination) of the following: (i) a book-type collectible, such as a comic book, magazine, program, booklet, manual, etc. ; (ii) a sheet-type collectible, such as a trading card, poster, art print, photograph, etc. ; (iii) a rigid or semi-rigid data medium, such as a DVD disc, a Blu-Ray disc, a vinyl record, a cartridge, etc. ; and (iv) a storage container, such as a slipcase, disc case, cover, box, etc. Other suitable dimensions and geometries for container 10 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

[0077] A given portion or feature of container 10 (or the entirety of container 10 more generally) may be manufactured using any of a wide range of suitable system(s) and/or process(es), including, for example, those employing extrusion (e.g., blown film extrusion), blow molding, thermoforming, three-dimensional (3-D) printing, laminating, welding, drawing, vacuum-forming, and die-cutting, to name a few. Other suitable techniques for manufacturing container 10 will depend on a given target application or end-use and will be apparent in light of this disclosure.

Further Examples

[0078] The following examples pertain to some further embodiments of the disclosure, from which numerous permutations and combinations will be apparent.

[0079] Example 1 is a collectible container comprising a main body portion defining an interior space configured to receive a collectible, wherein the main body portion has defined therein a first region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a first opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the first opening to a first surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

[0080] Example 2 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1 and 3-62, wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

[0081] Example 3 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-2 and 4-62, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region comprises a first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions.

[0082] Example 4 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-3 and 5-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is provided in an array or matrix configuration.

[0083] Example 5 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-4 and 6-62 wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is arranged in at least one row and at least one column.

[0084] Example 6 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-5 and 7-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns.

[0085] Example 7 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-6 and 8-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are homogeneous in shape.

[0086] Example 8 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-7 and 9-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are heterogeneous in shape.

[0087] Example 9 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-8 and 10-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are homogeneous in size.

[0088] Example 10 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-9 and 11-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are heterogeneous in size.

[0089] Example 11 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-10 and 12-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are homogeneous in both shape and size.

[0090] Example 12 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-11 and 13-62, wherein the first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions are: heterogeneous in one of either shape or size; and homogeneous in the other of either shape or size.

[0091] Example 13 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-12 and 14-62, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual removal of said at least one predefined removable sub-region from the collectible container by a user.

[0092] Example 14 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-13 and 15-62, wherein the first region is at least partially defined in the main body portion by a series of perforations formed in a constituent material of the main body portion.

[0093] Example 15 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-14 and 16-62, wherein the first region is substantially entirely defined in the main body portion by the series of perforations.

[0094] Example 16 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-15 and 17-62, wherein the first region is at least partially defined in the main body portion by localized thinning of a constituent material of the main body portion.

[0095] Example 17 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-16 and 18-62, wherein the first region is substantially entirely defined in the main body portion by the localized thinning.

[0096] Example 18 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-17 and 19-62, wherein the main body portion comprises a first body portion having the first region defined therein.

[0097] Example 19 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-18 and 20-62, wherein the first body portion is a flexible film or sheet.

[0098] Example 20 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-19 and 21-62, wherein the first body portion is substantially flat or planar in at least one of form and topography.

[0099] Example 21 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-20 and 22-62, wherein the first body portion comprises a perimeter portion at least partially surrounding the first region and configured to cover at least a portion of the first surface of the collectible.

[0100] Example 22 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-21 and 23-62, wherein the perimeter portion extends to cover at least two edges of the collectible.

[0101] Example 23 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-22 and 24-62, wherein the perimeter portion extends to cover at least three edges of the collectible.

[0102] Example 24 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-23 and 25-62, wherein the perimeter portion extends to cover at least four edges of the collectible.

[0103] Example 25 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-24 and 26-62, wherein the perimeter portion extends to cover substantially all of a perimeter of the collectible.

[0104] Example 26 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-25 and 27-62, the collectible container further comprising a cover portion connected to the main body portion and configured to cover the first region.

[0105] Example 27 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-26 and 28-62, wherein the cover portion is configured to cover substantially all of the first body portion.

[0106] Example 28 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-27 and 29-62, wherein the cover portion is configured to be folded or laid over the first body portion.

[0107] Example 29 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-28 and 30-62, wherein the first body portion further has defined therein a second region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to the first surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

[0108] Example 30 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-29 and 31-62, wherein the first region and the second region are physically separated by an intervening strip or barrier of a constituent material of the first body portion.

[0109] Example 31 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-30 and 32-62, wherein the main body portion further comprises a second body portion situated opposite the first body portion such that the interior space is defined between the first body portion and the second body portion.

[0110] Example 32 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-31 and 33-62, wherein the second body portion is a flexible film or sheet.

[0111] Example 33 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-32 and 34-62, wherein the second body portion is substantially flat or planar in at least one of form and topography.

[0112] Example 34 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-33 and 35-62, wherein the second body portion has defined therein a second region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the main body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to a second surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

[0113] Example 35 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-34 and 36-62, wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

[0114] Example 36 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-35 and 37-62, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region comprises a second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions.

[0115] Example 37 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-36 and 38-62, wherein the second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is provided in an array or matrix configuration.

[0116] Example 38 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-37 and 39-62, wherein the second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is arranged in at least one row and at least one column.

[0117] Example 39 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-38 and 40-62, wherein the second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions is arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns.

[0118] Example 40 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-39 and 41-62, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual removal of said at least one predefined removable sub-region from the collectible container by a user.

[0119] Example 41 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-40 and 42-62, wherein the second body portion comprises a perimeter portion at least partially surrounding the second region and configured to cover at least a portion of the second surface of the collectible.

[0120] Example 42 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-41 and 43-62, wherein the perimeter portion extends to cover substantially all of a perimeter of the collectible.

[0121] Example 43 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-42 and 44-62, the collectible container further comprising a cover portion connected to the main body portion and configured to cover the second region.

[0122] Example 44 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-43 and 45-62, wherein the cover portion is configured to cover substantially all of the second body portion.

[0123] Example 45 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-44 and 46-62, wherein the cover portion is configured to be folded or laid over the second body portion.

[0124] Example 46 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-45 and 47-62, the collectible container further comprising a retaining feature connected to the main body portion and configured to facilitate retention of the collectible within the interior space.

[0125] Example 47 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-46 and 48-62, wherein the retaining feature is a tab configured to be folded or laid over and received within the interior space.

[0126] Example 48 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-47 and 49-62, wherein the retaining feature includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual manipulation of said retaining feature by a user.

[0127] Example 49 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-48 and 50-62, the collectible container further comprising an adhesive material disposed on the retaining feature.

[0128] Example 50 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-49 and 51-62, the collectible container further comprising an adhesive material disposed on an area of the main body portion where the retaining feature is to physically interface in retention of the collectible within the interior space.

[0129] Example 51 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-50 and 52-62, the collectible container further comprising a mechanical fastener disposed on the retaining feature.

[0130] Example 52 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-51 and 53-62, the collectible container further comprising a mechanical fastener disposed on an area of the main body portion where the retaining feature is to physically interface in retention of the collectible within the interior space.

[0131] Example 53 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-52 and 54-62, wherein the main body portion comprises a transparent or translucent material.

[0132] Example 54 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-53 and 55-62, wherein the main body portion comprises a polymer.

[0133] Example 55 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-54 and 56-62, wherein the main body portion comprises at least one of: polypropylene; polyethylene; polyethylene terephthalate; biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate; acrylic; polycarbonate; acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; cellophane; and a bioplastic.

[0134] Example 56 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a bag.

[0135] Example 57 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a sleeve.

[0136] Example 58 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a page preserver or a sheet protector.

[0137] Example 59 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a top-loader protector or a side-loader protector.

[0138] Example 60 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a pouch.

[0139] Example 61 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a frame.

[0140] Example 62 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 1-55, wherein the collectible container is configured as a case or a box.

[0141] Example 63 is a collectible container comprising a main body portion comprising: a first body portion; and a second body portion situated opposite the first body portion such that an interior space configured to receive a collectible is defined between the first body portion and the second body portion; wherein the first body portion has defined therein a first region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a first opening defined in the first body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the first opening to a first surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

[0142] Example 64 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63 and 65-75, wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

[0143] Example 65 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-64 and 66-75, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region comprises a first plurality of predefined removable sub-regions provided in an array or matrix configuration.

[0144] Example 66 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-65 and 67-75, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the first region includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual removal of said at least one predefined removable sub-region from the collectible container by the user.

[0145] Example 67 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-66 and 68-75, wherein the second body portion has defined therein a second region comprising at least one predefined removable sub-region configured to be physically removed from the collectible container to produce a second opening defined in the second body portion which opens into the interior space, thereby providing access through the second opening to a second surface of the collectible received by the interior space.

[0146] Example 68 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-67 and 69-75, wherein in being configured to be physically removed from the collectible container, the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region is configured for pick-and-pluck removal by hand of a user without use of any additional tool or intervening device.

[0147] Example 69 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-68 and 70-75, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region comprises a second plurality of predefined removable sub-regions provided in an array or matrix configuration.

[0148] Example 70 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-69 and 71-75, wherein the at least one predefined removable sub-region of the second region includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual removal of said at least one predefined removable sub-region from the collectible container by the user.

[0149] Example 71 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-70 and 72-75, the collectible container further comprising a first cover portion operatively coupled with the main body portion and configured to cover one of either the first body portion or the second body portion.

[0150] Example 72 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-71 and 73-75, the collectible container further comprising a second cover portion operatively coupled with the main body portion and configured to cover the other of either the first body portion or the second body portion.

[0151] Example 73 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-72 and 74-75, wherein at least one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual manipulation of said at least one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion by a user.

[0152] Example 74 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-73 and 75, the collectible container further comprising a retaining feature operatively coupled with the main body portion and configured to facilitate retention of the collectible within the interior space.

[0153] Example 75 includes the subject matter of any of Examples 63-74, wherein the retaining feature includes a surface texture or finish configured to facilitate manual manipulation of said retaining feature by a user.

[0154] The foregoing description of example embodiments has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of this disclosure. It is intended that the scope of the present disclosure not be limited by this detailed description. Future-filed applications claiming priority to this application may claim the disclosed subject matter in a different manner and generally may include any set of one or more limitations as variously disclosed or otherwise demonstrated herein.