WO2025030144A1 - Collectible item - Google Patents

Abstract

A collectible item can include a transparent layer comprising one or more signatures, an underlying item including one or more images, and an optically transparent adhesive. A method to manufacture the collectible item may include providing a sheet comprising at least a substrate layer adhered to a transparent layer via an adhesive. The sheet may be cut into a plurality of sheet pieces where the sheet pieces have dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of a collectible item. An underlying item with dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item may also be provided. Using an adhesive, the transparent layer of a sheet piece and the underlying item can be adhered to form an oversized collectible item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. Finally, the oversized collectible item can be trimmed to the final dimensions to create the collectible item.

Description

COLLECTIBLE ITEM

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/530,663, filed on August 3, 2023, and entitled “Collectible Item”, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Collectible items, whether trading cards, pictures, or other memorabilia, are often more highly prized and valued when they are signed by the person depicted on or related to the collectible item. For example, a Michael Jordan trading card signed by Michael Jordan has more value than an unsigned version of the trading card. However, while it is desirable to have signatures directly on the collectible items, the collection of those signatures can be difficult, and the collectible items can be damaged during the collection and application of the signature.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] One general aspect includes a method of manufacturing a collectible item. The method of manufacturing also includes providing a sheet may include at least a substrate layer and a transparent layer, the substrate layer being adhered to the transparent layer via an adhesive. The manufacturing also includes cutting the sheet into a plurality of sheet pieces, a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces having dimensions larger than corresponding final dimensions of a collectible item; providing an underlying item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; adhering, via the adhesive, the transparent layer of a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; and trimming the oversized collectible item to the final dimensions to create the collectible item.

[0004] In some embodiments, the transparent layer can be an optically transparent polymer. In some embodiments, the transparent layer and the underlying item are conterminous when the transparent layer is applied to the underlying item. In some embodiments, the sheet includes printed targets. In some embodiments, the printed targets are located on the substrate layer under the transparent layer of the sheet. In some embodiments, the printed targets are visible through the transparent layer of the sheet.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method includes providing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet, and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet. In some embodiments, each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer overlaying a unique one of the printed targets.

[0006] In some embodiments, the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer. In some embodiments, the underlying item has a length and width greater than a corresponding length and width of the collectible item. In some embodiments, the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces has approximately a same width and length as the underlying item.

In some embodiments, the method includes rolling the oversized collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet piece to the underlying item. In some embodiments, trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming together at least the underlying item and the sheet piece adhered to the underlying item. In some embodiments, trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming the oversized collectible item with a guillotine cutter.

[0007] One aspect relates to a collectible item. The collectible item including a transparent layer comprising one or more signatures on a first top surface of the transparent layer, an underlying item including one or more images, and an optically transparent adhesive adhering the transparent layer to the underlying item. In some embodiments, the transparent layer and the underlying item are together trimmed to same dimensions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the transparent layer can be an optically transparent polymer. In some embodiments, the underlying item and the transparent layer are conterminous. In some embodiments, the underlying item can include at least one of cardstock or paper. In some embodiments, the underlying item can be or can include a photo. In some embodiments, the transparent layer is glossy.

[0009] In some embodiments, the transparent layer is adhered to the underlying item prior to trimming the underlying item and transparent layer to dimensions corresponding to the collectible item. In some embodiments, the optically transparent adhesive adheres a first bottom surface of the transparent layer to a second top surface of the underlying item. In some embodiments, the underlying item includes printed targets visible through the transparent layer. In some embodiments, the transparent layer includes one or more signatures located on a portion of the transparent layer overlaying a unique of the of the printed targets.

[0010] One aspect relates to a method of manufacturing a collectible item. The method includes providing an envelope including a window, the envelope containing a sheet including a transparent layer and an adhesive layer, cutting the sheet into a plurality of sheet pieces, a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces having dimensions larger than corresponding final dimensions of a collectible item, providing an underlying item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item, bonding, via the adhesive layer, the transparent layer of a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item, and trimming the oversized collectible item to the final dimensions to create the collectible item.

[0011] In some embodiments, the transparent layer can include an optically transparent polymer. In some embodiments, the transparent layer and the underlying item are conterminous when the transparent layer is applied to the underlying item.

[0012] In some embodiments, the envelope includes printed targets. In some embodiments, the printed targets are located on a back of the envelope. In some embodiments, the printed targets are visible through the window when the envelope is in a closed configuration.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method includes providing the envelope containing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet, and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet. In some embodiments, each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer corresponding to a unique one of the printed targets. In some embodiments, the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer.

[0014] In some embodiments, the underlying item has a length and width greater than a corresponding length and width of the collectible item. In some embodiments, the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces has approximately a same width and length as the underlying item. [0015] In some embodiments, the method includes activating the adhesive layer, and rolling the oversized collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet piece to the underlying item.

[0016] In some embodiments, trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming together at least the underlying item and the sheet piece adhered to the underlying item. In some embodiments, trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming the oversized collectible item with a guillotine cutter.

[0017] One aspect of the present relates to a method of manufacturing at least one collectible item. The method includes providing an envelope having a window, the envelope containing a sheet comprising a transparent layer and an adhesive layer, bonding, via the adhesive layer, the transparent layer of the sheet to an item sheet including a plurality of underlying items, and cutting a plurality of collectible items from the bonded sheet and item sheet.

[0018] In some embodiments, the transparent layer includes an optically transparent polymer. In some embodiments, the transparent layer of the sheet and the item sheet are conterminous when the transparent layer of the sheet is applied to the item sheet. In some embodiments, the envelope includes printed targets. In some embodiments, the printed targets are located on a back of the envelope. In some embodiments, the printed targets are visible through the window when the envelope is in a closed configuration.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method includes providing the envelope containing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet, and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet. In some embodiments, each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer corresponding to a unique one of the printed targets. In some embodiments, the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer.

[0020] In some embodiments, method includes activating the adhesive layer, and rolling the oversized collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet to the item sheet. In some embodiments, the method includes bonding a thin film layer to the item sheet before bonding the transparent layer to the item sheet. In some embodiments, the item sheet does not include a UV layer. In some embodiments, the thin film layer is bonded directly to the item sheet with no intervening layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a collectible item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [0023] FIG. 2 A illustrates an example of a sheet, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view along plane A-A, as shown in FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 3 A illustrates an envelope in a closed configuration;

[0026] FIG. 3B illustrates the envelope in an open configuration;

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates an example oversized sheet piece, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates an example oversized underlying item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 6 illustrates the application of a transparent layer to the oversized underlying item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 7 illustrates an example oversized collectible item and an example trimmed collectible item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 8 is a flow chart that illustrates an example process of creating a collectible item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0032] FIG. 9 is a flow chart that illustrates an exemplary process of using an envelope in creating a collectible item, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 10 is a depiction of one embodiment of an item sheet.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of process for creating a plurality of collectible items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to collectible items and, more specifically, to the manufacturing of collectible items including one or more signatures. The collectible item may include a transparent layer comprising one or more signatures on a first side of the transparent layer and an underlying item (e.g., trading card, collectible image, etc.) including one or more images. The transparent layer can be adhered to the underlying item using an optically transparent adhesive.

[0037] Some techniques described herein include, providing a sheet comprising at least a substrate layer (e.g., paper, cardstock, etc.) and a transparent layer (e g., an optically transparent polymer). The transparent layer may be adhered to the substrate via an adhesive and the substrate layer can include one or more markings (e.g., printed targets) that are visible through the transparent layer. For example, a series of printed targets in the form of boxes with dashed lines can be located on the substrate layer under the transparent layer of the sheet.[0038] The sheet can be cut into a plurality of sheet pieces so that each sheet piece has dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. Moreover, an underlying item, such as a trading card or photo, may be provided. The underlying item can be dimensioned to be larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. Using the adhesive, the transparent layer of the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces can be adhered to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item with dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. For example, once the transparent layer has been attached to the underlying item, the resulting oversized collectible item may have an allowance around the border of the collectible item. Finally, the oversized collectible item may be trimmed to the final desired dimensions to create a collectible item.

[0039] In further embodiments, the sheet may be provided to an individual to sign. For example, one or more sheets can be provided to a particular individual, such as a famous baseball or basketball player. Once provided, the particular individual can apply their signature to one or more locations on the transparent layer of the sheet. In additional embodiments, each of the signatures may be located on a portion of the transparent layer which overlays a unique printed target on the substrate layer. The sheet may then be received and cut to create a plurality of individual sheet pieces where each sheet piece includes a signature. While the markings applied to the transparent layer are illustrated and described herein as signatures, the markings are not limited as such and can apply to other types of marks, such as text or drawings.

[0040] Some techniques described herein include, providing a sheet comprising a transparent layer (e.g., an optically transparent polymer). The transparent layer can include an adhesive on one surface of the transparent layer. The adhesive can be an activatable adhesive such as a heat activated adhesive, a light activated adhesive, a pressure activated adhesive, a solvent and/or water activated adhesive, or the like. In some embodiments, the transparent layer can be paired with a substrate layer. In such an embodiment, the transparent layer can be adhered to the substrate layer, or can be positioned on the substrate layer such that the adhesive is between the transparent layer and the substrate layer. The substrate layer can include one or more markings (e.g., printed targets) that are visible through the transparent layer. For example, a series of printed targets in the form of boxes with dashed lines can be located on the substrate layer under the transparent layer of the sheet. Alternatively, one or several transparent layers can be placed within an envelope having a front including an open window, and a back including a series of printed targets in the form of boxes with dashed lines. When placed in the envelope with the adhesive towards the back of the envelope, the printed targets are viewable through the transparent layer(s) through the window of the envelope, and the topmost transparent layer can be signed through the window.

[0041] Moreover, an underlying item, such as a trading card or photo, may be provided. In some embodiments, this underlying item can comprise one or several single collectible items, or can comprise a sheet comprising a plurality of collectible items. The underlying item can be dimensioned to be larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. Using the adhesive, the transparent layer of the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces can be adhered to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item with dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. In some embodiments, this can include laminating the sheet and/or one or several sheet pieces onto a sheet of collectible items and/or onto one or several collectible items. In some embodiments, this can include activating the adhesive such as via heat, pressure, light, solvent, or the like.

[0042] In some embodiments, the sheet comprising the transparent layer can be cut into a plurality of sheet pieces so that each sheet piece has dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. The cut pieces of transparent layer can be adhered to similarly cut pieces of a sheet of underlying item, each such cut piece of the sheet of underlying item comprising one collectible item cut to have dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item. After the piece of the transparent layer has been attached to the underlying item, the resulting oversized collectible item may have an allowance around the border of the collectible item. Finally, the oversized collectible item may be trimmed to the final desired dimensions to create a collectible item.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sheet comprising the transparent layer can be provided to an individual to sign. For example, one or more sheets can be provided to a particular individual, such as a famous baseball or basketball player. In some embodiments, this can include loading one or several sheets into the envelope and providing the envelope to the individual to sign. Once provided, the particular individual can apply their signature to one or more locations on the transparent layer of the sheet. In additional embodiments, each of the signatures may be located on a portion of the transparent layer which overlays a unique printed target on the envelope. The sheet may then be received and cut to create a plurality of individual sheet pieces where each sheet piece includes a signature. While the markings applied to the transparent layer are illustrated and described herein as signatures, the markings are not limited as such and can apply to other types of marks, such as text or drawings.

[0044] By providing an individual with a sheet to collect signatures instead of a collectible item, the process of collecting signatures can be simplified. For example, instead of sending individual trading cards to a famous basketball player to sign, one or more sheets can be provided to the individual. One sheet can be used to collect multiple signatures, which can then be used to manufacture multiple collectible items. Furthermore, using the techniques described herein, the likelihood of damage to the collectible item can also be reduced. By sending a sheet to be signed in lieu of a valuable collectible item, said collectible item can be protected from damage that may occur during transport and/or signing. For example, an individual may want a basketball player to sign a trading card depicting their likeness, however, to acquire said signature, the trading card must be shipped. During the shipping process, the trading card could be bent, ripped, or even lost. However, if the signature is separately collected and then applied to a transparent layer of a sheet, which is then transferred to the underlying item and trimmed down to size, the underlying item may be protected from potential damage.

[0045] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a collectible item 100. The collectible item 100 may be comprised of an underlying item 102 and a transparent layer 104. The underlying item 102 may contain one or more images 106 depicting particular one or more persons, places, or things (fictional or non-fictional). For example, the underlying item 102 may be a trading card depicting a sports player, such as Michael Jordon. In some embodiments, the underlying item 102 may further include text alongside the one or more images 106. For example, a sport trading card may depict a famous basketball player and include a description of said player as well as additional text highlighting abilities, statistics, and/or trivia related to the player. Moreover, the underlying item 102 may be composed of varying materials such as paper, card stock, plastic, etc.

[0046] In some embodiments the collectible item 100 may include a transparent layer 104 overlay ed on the underlying item 102. The transparent layer 104 may be comprised of an optically transparent material such that the underlying item 102 remains visible upon application of the transparent layer 104. Therefore, when images 106 on the underlying item 102 are viewed through the transparent layer 104, the images 106 may appear undistorted or minimally distorted. For example, a transparent layer 104 can be applied to a trading card with an image 106 of a famous basketball player. The transparent polymer layer 104 can act as a barrier, protecting the trading card from direct damage, but it may also not obstruct the image 106 of the famous basketball player. In another embodiment, at least a first side of the transparent layer 104 can be designed to be marked 108 (e.g., written on, printed on, etc.). For example, an individual can write or sign a first side of the transparent layer 104 with a writing utensil, such as a pen or marker. Moreover, once marked 108 (e.g., signed), the transparent layer 104 may retain the markings 108 (e.g., signatures) allowing the markings 108 (e.g., signatures) to be viewed at a later time. Since the transparent layer 104 can be moved and applied to various surfaces, a signature 108 applied to the transparent layer 104 will appear to be overlay ed on any of the surfaces the transparent layer 104 is applied to. The transparent layer can, in some embodiments, comprise a thickness of between 0.1 mil and 5 mil, between 0.5 mil and 4 mil, between 1 mil and 3 mil, approximately 2 mil, and/or any other or intermediate desired thickness. As used herein, “approximately” refers to a range around the associated base value of plus or minus 10 percent of the base value.

[0041] The transparent layer 104 can comprise a variety of materials including, for example, polyethylene terephthalate, also referred to herein as PET or polyester, polyvinyl chloride, also referred to herein as PCV or vinyl, or any other material. In some embodiments, the transparent layer can have an opacity and/or opaqueness of between approximately 0 percent and 10 percent, between approximately 1 percent and 5 percent, or approximately 5 percent, of approximately 3 percent, of approximately 1 percent, or any other or intermediate opacity and/or opaqueness. [0047] In some embodiments, the collectible item 100 can include an adhesive 210, which can be used to bind the components of the collectible item 100. The adhesive layer 210 can, in some embodiments, comprise a thickness of between 0.1 mil and 3 mil, between 0.2 mil and 2 mil, between 0.3 mil and 1 mil, approximately 1 mil, or any other or intermediate thickness. The adhesive can be any type of adhesive including, for example, a heat activated adhesive, a light activated adhesive, a pressure activated adhesive, a solvent and/or water activated adhesive, or the like. For example, an adhesive 210 may be placed on a second side of the transparent layer 104. Thus, when the second side of the transparent layer 104 is pressed upon the underlying item 102, and in some embodiments in which the adhesive is activated, the transparent layer 104 may adhere to the underlying item 102. In some embodiments, the activation of the adhesive can laminate the transparent layer 104 to the underlying item 102, thereby, in some embodiments, permanently coupling the transparent layer 104 to the underlying item 102. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 and the underlying item 102 are attached such that the transparent layer 104 and the underlying item 102 are conterminous. In another embodiment, the adhesive 210 may be an optically transparent ensuring that any images 106 on the underlying item 102 may still be viewable after the transparent adhesive 210 is applied. Furthermore, the transparent adhesive 210 may be chosen based on various select properties such as, but not limited to, flexibility, anti-reflective, anti-smudging, and anti-glare.

[0048] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate an example of a sheet 200. The sheet 200 can include at least a transparent layer 104 and an adhesive layer 210. In some embodiments, the sheet 200 can further include a substrate layer 204, which substrate layer can, in some embodiments, be adhered to the transparent layer 104 via the adhesive layer 210, and/or can be positioned on top of the adhesive layer 210. In some embodiments, the substrate layer 204 can be positioned on top of the adhesive layer 210 to protect the adhesive layer.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 may be comprised of various materials, for example, a transparent polymer may be used, such as an acrylic polymer or a plastic. Furthermore, the surface texture of the transparent layer 104 may vary depending on the desired characteristics. For example, the surface texture of the transparent layer 104 may be glossy creating a reflective finish when applied to an underlying item 102. Alternatively, or additionally, the surface of the sheet 200 may be designed with a matte or semi-gloss texture reducing the overall surface reflection of the transparent layer 104. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 can be designed to allow for the application of one or more markings (e.g., signatures 108). For example, an individual may be able to apply their signature 108 to the transparent layer 104 using a pen or marker. In turn, the transparent layer 104 may be capable of retaining the signature 108 so that the signature 108 can remain permanently or semipermanently visible on the transparent layer 104.

[0050] In some embodiments, the substrate layer 204 of the sheet 200 may be located below the transparent layer 104. Moreover, the substrate layer 204 may be comprised of various materials, such as paper, wax paper, or cardstock. The substrate layer 204 may be applied to the transparent layer 104 via an optically clear adhesive 210, such as a clear fixative used to join discrete materials by forming a surface attachment. Alternatively, the substrate layer 204 can be positioned overlying the adhesive layer 210.

[0051] In another embodiment, the substrate layer 204 can include one or more markings 202, such as printed targets, on at least a first side. For example, one or more targets in the form of dashed lines may be printed onto the substrate layer 204. When the transparent layer 104 is adhered to the substrate layer 204, the one or more markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) on the substrate layer 204 may remain visible through the transparent layer 104. In some embodiments, the markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) can be used to call attention to particular locations on the substrate layer 204. For instance, a series of dashed lines creating a box can be used to draw attention to the location of said box on the substrate layer 204. The markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) can be sized and/or spaced to receive one or more signatures 108 and can be placed at locations on the substrate layer 204 to indicate where on the overlaid transparent layer 104 the signatures 108 should be applied. For example, a series of boxes may be printed on the substrate layer 204 to guide an individual to apply their signature 108 inside said boxes. Embodiments are shown and described herein in the context of the one or more markings 202 (e g., printed targets) being dashed lines and/or signatures 108. However, the embodiments are not limited as such and can similarly apply to other types of markings 202, such as solid lines, printed text, designs, functional guides, etc.

[0052] Some embodiments can include any desired number of targets 202 arranged in any desired pattern. In some embodiments, a substrate layer 204 can include between 1 target 202 and 100 targets 202, between 1 target 202 and 20 targets 202, between 1 target 202 and 10 targets 202, or any other or intermediate number of targets. In some embodiments, these targets 202 can be arranged in any desired pattern including for example, in any desired number of rows and columns to contain the targets 202. In the embodiment of Figure 2A, the targets 202 are arranged in a 2x2 pattern having two rows and two columns. In some embodiments, the targets can be arranged to have 1 row, 2 rows, 3 rows, 4 rows, 5 rows, 10 rows, between 1 row and 10 rows, or any other or intermediate number of rows, and to have 1 column, 2 columns, 3 columns, 4 columns, 5 columns, 6 columns, 7 columns, 8 columns, 10 columns, between 1 and 20 columns, or any other or intermediate number of columns. In some embodiments, the targets can be arranged in 1 row and 5 columns, 2 rows and 5 columns, 3 rows and 3 columns, or any other or intermediate number of rows and columns.

[0053] In another embodiment, the sheet 200 may be provided to one or more individuals for the application of signatures 108. One sheet 200 can be used to collect multiple signatures 108 from one or more individuals. For example, a sheet 200 can be given to a famous baseball player who can sign the sheet 200 at various designated locations on the sheet 200. The signatures 108 can be applied to one or more locations on the sheet 200 so that each signature 108 overlays a unique one of the printed targets 202. For example, the famous baseball player can sign the sheet 200 so that their signature 108 appears inside each of the four separate printed targets 202 depicted in FIG. 2A. In some embodiments the sheet 200 may be provided to a particular individual for signing in lieu of providing the individual with the underlying item 102. For example, instead of sending a famous basketball player individual trading cards depicting their likeness, one or more sheets 200 may be provided for signing. Sending one or more sheets 200 instead of the underlying item 102 can reduce the likelihood that the underlying item 102 is damaged. To acquire signatures 108, an underlying item 102 may have to travel long distances and be passed between many people. During this transit period, the underlying item 102 can be damaged and/or lost. In the instance when the underlying item 102 is a desirable collectible, this type of damage and/or loss can become exponentially more expensive. For instance, during transit a collectible card could be tom or scratched irreparably. Furthermore, if the collectible card is one of only a few cards produced, it could be difficult or impossible to replace the card. Thus, by providing a sheet 200 for signatures 108, separate from the collectible item 100, the collectible item 100 can be protected and the likelihood of damage and/or loss can be minimized or avoided altogether. [0054] In some embodiments, a single sheet 200 with multiple signatures 108 can be used to create multiple collectible items 100, each with a viewable signature 108 on the transparent layer 104. Using one sheet 200 in this way can make it easier to collect multiple signatures 108 for multiple collectible items 100. That is, instead of providing someone with individual collectible items 100 to sign, which can be difficult to handle and easily lost, a large sheet 200 can be provided on which the individual may apply their signature 108 multiple times quickly and easily. Once the signatures 108 are collected, the sheet 200 may be cut to create multiple sheet pieces 208, as illustrated by the dashed lines 206 in FIG. 2A. For example, the sheet 200 can be separated into four similarly sized sheet pieces 208, which can be later applied to four separate collectible items 100.

[0055] FIGS. 3A and 3B are views of an embodiment of an envelope 250, with FIG. 3A depicting a front view of the envelope 250 in a closed configuration, and FIG. 3B. The envelope 250 can be configured to receive one or more sheets 200, to hold the one or more sheets 200, and to enable the signing of a topmost sheet 200 of the one or more sheets held in the envelope 250. The envelope 250 can, in some embodiments, hold the one or more sheets 200 to enable signing of the transparent layer 140 of the topmost of the one or several sheets 200.

[0056] The envelope 250 can comprise a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, the envelope 250 can be larger than the sheets 200 such that one or several sheets can be received within the envelope 250. The envelope 250 can, in some embodiments, comprise a material having sufficient rigidity to allow a user to sign a sheet 200 contained within the envelope 250 while holding the envelope 250. In some embodiments, the envelope 250 can be made of paper, cardboard, cardstock, plastic, or the like. [0057] The envelope 250 can include a front 252. The front 252 can define a window 254 comprising an opening through the font 252 of the envelope 250. The window 254 can be sized and shaped to allow a user to sign all or portions of a topmost sheet 200 contained within the envelope 250.

[0058] As seen in FIG. 3A, a back 256 of the envelope 250 can be visible through the window when the envelope 250 is in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the back 256 of the envelope 250 can include one or more markings 202, such as printed targets, on at least an interior side of the envelope 250 such that the markings 202 are visible through the window 254 when the envelope 250 is in the closed configuration. [0059] In some embodiments, the markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) can be used to call attention to particular locations on the back 256 of the envelope 250. For instance, a series of dashed lines creating a box can be used to draw attention to the location of said box on the back 256 of the envelope 250. The markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) can be sized and/or spaced to receive one or more signatures 108 and can be placed at locations on the back 256 of the envelope 250 to indicate where on the transparent layer 104 contained in the envelope 250 the signatures 108 should be applied. For example, a series of boxes may be printed on the back 256 of the envelope 250 to guide an individual to apply their signature 108 inside said boxes. Embodiments are shown and described herein in the context of the one or more markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) being dashed lines and/or signatures 108. However, the embodiments are not limited as such and can similarly apply to other types of markings 202, such as solid lines, printed text, designs, functional guides, etc.

[0060] Some embodiments can include any desired number of targets 202 arranged in any desired pattern. For example, the back 256 of the envelope 250 can include between 1 target 202 and 100 targets 202, between 1 target 202 and 20 targets 202, between 1 target 202 and 10 targets 202, or any other or intermediate number of targets. In some embodiments, these targets 202 can be arranged in any desired pattern including for example, in any desired number of rows and columns to contain the targets 202. In the embodiment of Figure 3 A, the targets 202 are arranged in a 4x2 pattern having four rows and two columns. In some embodiments, the targets can be arranged to have 1 row, 2 rows, 3 rows, 4 rows, 5 rows, 10 rows, between 1 row and 10 rows, or any other or intermediate number of rows, and to have 1 column, 2 columns, 3 columns, 4 columns, 5 columns, 6 columns, 7 columns, 8 columns, 10 columns, between 1 and 20 columns, or any other or intermediate number of columns. In some embodiments, the targets can be arranged in 1 row and 5 columns, 2 rows and 5 columns, 3 rows and 3 columns, or any other or intermediate number of rows and columns.

[0061] FIG. 3B depicts the envelope 250 in an open configuration. As seen in FIG. 3B, the back 256 of the envelope 250 includes a back sheet 258 hingedly or bendingly coupled to the front 252 of the envelope such that the front 252 and the back 256 of the envelope 250 can be moved between an open and a closed configuration. The back 256 of the envelope 250 can, in some embodiments, further include one or more tabs 260 coupled to the back sheet 258 of the envelope 250. The tabs 260 can be folded outwardly, as depicted in FIG. 3B to allow placement of one or several sheets 200 in the envelope 250. After the one or several sheets 200 have been placed in the envelope 250, the taps 260 can be folded inwardly to secure the sheets 200 within the envelope 250.

[0062] In some embodiments, a sheet 200 comprising a substrate layer 204 with markings 202 can be used in connection with the envelope 250. In some embodiments, a sheet 200 without a substrate layer 204 can be used with the envelope 250, and the markings 202 can be on the back 256 of the envelope 250, or can be on a separate template sheet that can be placed in the envelope 250 with the sheet 200.

[0063] FIG. 4 illustrates an example oversized sheet piece 208. As previously discussed, the sheet 200 can be cut in a manner that produces multiple sheet pieces 208. The sheet 200 may be cut such that each sheet piece 208 has dimensions 302, 304 larger than the collectible item 100 that is being manufactured. For example, the sheet 200 can be cut to create multiple oversized sheet pieces 208. Furthermore, each sheet piece 208 may be sized appropriately to be applied to a select underlying item 102. In some embodiments, a sheet piece 208 can be approximately the same width 304 and length 302 as the underlying item 102. For example, the sheet 200 can be cut such that when the resulting sheet piece 208 is applied to the underlying item 102 the sheet piece 208 covers some or all of the underlying item 102. In further embodiments, the sheet pieces 208 can be cut to particular dimensions 302, 304 that range between +/- 10% to +/-20% of the size of the underlying item 102. A sheet 200 can be cut such that each sheet piece 208 is approximately the same size. As used herein “approximately” identifies a range of values that is within +/- 10% of the associated base value, +/- 20% of the associated base value, or any other or intermediate value. Alternatively, the sheet 200 can be cut such that each sheet piece 208 is sized differently.

[0064] When a sheet 200 includes collected signatures 108, the sheet 200 can be separated such that each sheet piece 208 includes a signature 108. In some embodiments, the markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) and/or signatures 108 can be spaced to allow the cutting of the sheet 200 into sheet pieces 208 with dimensions 302, 304 larger than the final collectible item 100 being manufactured. Therefore, the sheet 200 can be cut so that each sheet piece 208 includes one or more markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) and a signature 108. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2A four targets 202 can be printed onto a sheet 200 to be similarly spaced across the substrate layer 204. Once an individual has applied their signature 108 to each of the four targets 202, the sheet 200 can be cut to produce four similarly sized sheet pieces 208. In this instance, as depicted in FIG. 4, each sheet piece 208 may then include a signature 108 as well as one or more markings 202.

[0065] In some embodiments, the sheet pieces 208 may be sized to dimensions 302, 304 larger than the final dimensions 306, 308 of the collectible item 100. For example, a sheet piece 208 can be cut to include an allowance around the edge. In some embodiments, the sheet 200 can be separated into sheet pieces 208 using a guillotine cutter. Alternatively, the sheet 200 can be separated into sheet pieces 208 using other cutting tools, such as scissors, a laser cutter, etc.

[0066] FIG. 5 illustrates an example oversized underlying item 400. The oversized underlying item 400 may be manufactured with dimensions 402, 404 larger than the corresponding final dimensions 406, 408 of the collectible item 100. For example, as depicted in FIG. 5, the oversized underlying item 400 can be manufactured with a larger width 404 and/or height 402 than the desired width 408 and/or height 406 of the final collectible item 100. The oversized underlying item 400 can be any collectible, such as a card, a piece of paper, a photo, or the like. The manufacturing of the oversized underlying item 400 can include the printing of one or more images 106, text, icons, or the like on one or both sides of the oversized underlying item 400.

Various embodiments are shown and described herein in the context of the illustrative case of the oversized underlying item 400 being a trading card depicting sports players, however the embodiments are not limited as such and can similarly apply to other types of cards, such as cards depicting fictional characters or places, playing cards, cards depicting non-sports related noteworthy individuals, etc. Moreover, the embodiments herein are not limited to trading cards and can be further applied to other types of collectibles including, but not limited to, photographs, posters, playing cards, booklets, etc.

[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates the application 500 of a transparent layer 104 to the oversized underlying item 400. Prior to application, the transparent layer 104 of a sheet piece 208 may be separated from the substrate layer 204 of the sheet piece 208 and/or removed from the envelope 250. For example, when the transparent layer 104 of the sheet piece 208 is separated from the substrate layer 204, the layer of transparent polymer may be peeled off of the paper substrate layer 204. A collectible item 100 may then be created by applying 500 a transparent layer 104 of a sheet piece 208 to an oversized underlying item 400. The transparent layer 104 can be applied 500 to the oversized underlying item 400 such that the oversized underlying item 400 is conterminous with the transparent layer 104. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 and the oversized underlying item 400 can be sized and combined such that the resulting collectible item 100 has dimensions 302, 304, 402, 404 larger than the desired dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 of the final collectible item 100. For example, a transparent polymer sheet 200 with oversized dimensions 302, 304 can be applied 500 to a trading card with oversized dimensions 404, 406 creating an oversized trading card with a transparent polymer layer 104. In another embodiment, a transparent layer 104 may be applied 500 to a second side of the oversized underlying item 400. For example, a transparent polymer layer 104 may be applied 500 to both sides of a sports trading card.

[0068] In some embodiments, the adhesive 210 used to apply 500 the substrate layer 204 to the transparent layer 104 may at least in part remain on a side of the transparent layer 104. The transparent layer 104 may then be adhered 500 to the oversized underlying item 400 by pressing the side of the transparent layer 104 with the remaining adhesive 210 to a side of the oversized underlying item 400.

[0069] In some embodiments, the application of the transparent layer 104 to the underlying 400 can include the activation of the adhesive of the transparent layer 104. This can include the application of a desired heat, light, solvent and/or water, pressure, or the like to the transparent layer 104 and/or to the adhesive layer 210. This can include, in some embodiments, positioning the transparent layer 104 on top of the underlying item 400 and passing the so positioned transparently layer 104 and the underlying item 400 through a roller, which roller can be a heated roller.

[0070] In some embodiments, and before application of the transparent layer 104 to the underlying item 400, a thin film process can be performed to apply a thin film layer to the underlying item. This thin film can comprise a film transparent layer and an underlying film adhesive layer. In some embodiments, the film transparent layer can comprise PET, PVC, or the like. The thin film can have a thickness of, for example, between 0.1 mil and 2 mils, approximately 1.2 mils, or any other or intermediate thickness. In some embodiments, the film transparent layer can have a thickness of between approximately 0.1 mils and 2 mils, between approximately 0.2 mils and 1 mil, of approximately 1 mil, of approximately 0.8 mils, or any other or intermediate value. In some embodiments, the film adhesive layer can have a thickness of between 0.1 mils and 0.8 mils, of between 0.2 mils and 0.4 mils, of approximately 0.4 mils, or approximately 0.2 mils, or approximately 0.1 mils, or any other or intermediate value.

[0071] In some embodiments, the thin film can comprise a glossy top surface. In other words, the surface of the film transparent layer that is not covered by the film adhesive layer can be glossy.

[0072] In some embodiments, application of the thin film layer before application of the transparent layer 104 can provide several benefits including, for example, optical benefits and durability benefits. In some embodiments, for example, the application of the thin film layer creates an improved bond between the transparent layer and the underlying item 102. This improved bond can be so improved as to be a permanent bond. In some embodiments, application of the thin film can improve the optical characteristics and/or appearance of the collectible item via, for example, creating a smooth, glossy surface to which the transparent layer 104 is adhered, thereby improving the appearance of the underlying item 102 and thus the appearance of the collectible item.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, once the transparent layer 104 is separated from the substrate layer 204, additional adhesive 210 may be applied to a side of the transparent layer 104. After reapplying the adhesive 210, the transparent layer 104 may be applied 500 to a side of the oversized underlying item 400, thus creating a collectible item 100.

[0074] In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 may be aligned with the oversized underlying item 400 such that the transparent layer 104, when applied, may cover approximately the entire side of the oversized underlying item 400. For example, the transparent layer 104 can be applied 500 to a card such that one side of the card is covered by the transparent layer 104, creating a barrier between external elements and the card face. Alternatively, the transparent layer 104 may be aligned to only cover a portion of a side of the oversized underlying item 400. For example, a transparent layer 104 may only cover a bottom portion of a card. Furthermore, the transparent layer 104 can be adhered 500 to the oversized underlying item 400 by pressing upon the transparent layer 104. In some embodiments a pressure roller may be used to adhere 500 the transparent layer 104 to the oversized underlying item 400. Additionally, or alternatively, other methods may be used to apply 500 the transparent layer 104 to the oversized underlying item 400, such as using a press or applying pressure manually. [0075] In another embodiment, a transparent layer 104 including a signature 108 can be positioned on the oversized underlying layer 400 so that the signature 108 appears overlayed at a particular location on the oversized underlying item 400. For example, a transparent polymer layer 104 can be applied 500 to a baseball card such that the signature 108 on the transparent polymer layer 104 appears at the bottom of the baseball card. In this way, the signature 108 can be positioned so that the signature 108 does not cover particular words or images 106 that may be present on the underlying item 102. Once a transparent layer 104 including a signature 108 is applied to the oversized underlying item 400, the signature 108 may appear superimposed on the face of the oversized underlying item 400 along with any other images 106 that may be present. [0076] FIG. 7 illustrates an example oversized collectible item 600 and an example trimmed collectible item 100. After the transparent layer 104 has been applied 500 to the oversized underlying item 400, the oversized collectible item 600 can be trimmed 602 to final dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 to form a final collectible item 100. For example, the border of the oversized collectible item 600 can be trimmed 602 down such that the dimensions are those of a standard playing card. In some cases, trimming 602 the oversized collectible item 600 down to the desired dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 may be easier than attempting to perfectly align a pretrimmed transparent layer 104 to a pretrimmed underlying item 102. In some embodiments, this trimming 602 can be performed by a guillotine cutter. Alternatively, or additionally, the trimming 602 can be performed using other cutting tools, such as scissors, a laser cutter, etc.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a flow chart that illustrates an example process 700 of creating a collectible item 100. The process 700 can include operation 702, where a sheet 200 comprised of at least a substrate layer 204 and a transparent layer 104 is provided. To adhere the substrate layer 204 to the transparent layer 104 an adhesive 210 may be used. For instance, a transparent adhesive 210 may be applied to a first side of the transparent layer 104, which may then be pressed against a side of the substrate layer 204, adhering the transparent layer 104 to the substrate layer 204. The process 700 may further include operation 704, where the sheet 200 can be provided to an individual for signing. For example, one or more sheets 200 may be sent to a famous basketball player who can apply their signature 108 one or more times to a transparent layer 104 of a sheet 200. In some instances, the substrate layer 204 can further include markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) to indicate where on the overlaid transparent layer 104 the one or more signatures 108 should be applied and, thus, guide the individual when signing the sheet 200. The process 700 may also include operation 706, where the sheet 200, including the one or more collected signatures 108, is received from the individual. For example, after sending a sheet 200 to a famous basketball player, the sheet 200 can be returned with the inclusion of one or more signatures 108 from the famous basketball player. In some instances, the collection of signatures 108 via the sheet 200 (e.g., providing the sheet 200 to an individual and the return of the sheet 200 with signatures 108 from the individual) may be executed in lieu of collecting signatures via discrete underlying items 102 (e.g., trading card, collectible image, etc.). For example, instead of sending an individual numerous trading cards to sign, one or more sheets 200 can be provided to the individual for signing. The process 700 may further include operation 708, where the sheet 200 can be cut into a plurality of sheet pieces 208. A sheet 200 of the plurality of sheet pieces 208 can have dimensions larger 302, 304 than the corresponding finals dimensions 306, 308 of a collectible item 100. For example, a sheet piece 208 may be cut such that the sheet piece 208 has a length 302 and/or width 304 that is larger than the 306 length and/or width 308 of the collectible item 100 that is being created in process 700. The process 700 can further include operation 710, where an underlying item 400 is provided. The underlying item 400 can have dimensions 402, 404 larger than the corresponding final dimensions 406, 408 of the collectible item 100. The process 700 can also include operation 712, where the transparent layer 104 of a sheet piece 208 of the plurality of sheet pieces 208 can be adhered 500, via an adhesive 210, to an underlying item 400. In some embodiments, the adhesive 210 and or the combination of the transparent layer 104 and the adhesive 210 can comprise a lamination film, and in some embodiments, can be a heat-activated lamination film. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 can be adhered to an underlying item 400 that does not include a coating, such as a UV coating on the surface to which the transparent layer is adhered.

[0078] Once adhered 500, the transparent layer 104 and underlying item 400 form an oversized collectible item 600 with dimensions 302, 304, 402, 404 larger than the corresponding final dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 of the collectible item 100. For example, when the transparent layer 104 is applied 500 to the underlying item 400 the resulting oversized collectible item 600 may be sized to have an allowance around the collectible item’s 100 border. Thus, the resulting product will have dimensions 302, 304, 402, 404 which exceed the dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 of the final collectible item 100. The process 700 can include operation 714, where the oversized collectible item 600 is trimmed 602 to the final dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 to create the collectible item 100. The final product is a collectible item 100 which can include one or more markings 202, such as printed targets, and signatures 108.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a flow chart that illustrates an example process 900 of creating a collectible item 100 using the envelope 250. The process 900 can include operation 902, where a sheet 200 comprised of at least a transparent layer 104 and an adhesive layer 210, and an envelope 250 comprising a window 254 is provided. The sheet 200 may be loaded into, and/or positioned in the envelope 250 such that the transparent layer is exposed through the window 254 and the adhesive layer 210 faces the back 256 of the envelope 250. The process 900 may further include operation 904, where the envelope 250 containing the sheet 200 can be provided to an individual for signing. For example, one or more sheets 200 in one or more envelopes 254 may be sent to a famous basketball player who can apply their signature 108 one or more times to a transparent layer 104 of a sheet 200. In some instances, the envelope 250 can further include markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) to indicate where on the overlaid transparent layer 104 the one or more signatures 108 should be applied and, thus, guide the individual when signing the sheet 200. The process 900 may also include operation 906, where the sheet 200, including the one or more collected signatures 108, is received from the individual. For example, after sending a sheet 200 to a famous basketball player, the sheet 200 can be returned with the inclusion of one or more signatures 108 from the famous basketball player. In some instances, the collection of signatures 108 via the sheet 200 (e.g., providing the sheet 200 to an individual and the return of the sheet 200 with signatures 108 from the individual) may be executed in lieu of collecting signatures via discrete underlying items 102 (e.g., trading card, collectible image, etc.). For example, instead of sending an individual numerous trading cards to sign, one or more sheets 200 can be provided to the individual for signing. The process 900 may further include operation 908, where the sheet 200 can be cut into a plurality of sheet pieces 208. A sheet 200 of the plurality of sheet pieces 208 can have dimensions larger 302, 304 than the corresponding finals dimensions 306, 308 of a collectible item 100. For example, a sheet piece 208 may be cut such that the sheet piece 208 has a length 302 and/or width 304 that is larger than the 306 length and/or width 308 of the collectible item 100 that is being created in process 900. The process 900 can further include operation 910, where an underlying item 400 is provided. The underlying item 400 can have dimensions 402, 404 larger than the corresponding final dimensions 406, 408 of the collectible item 100. The process 900 can also include operation 912, wherein a thin film process is performed on the underlying item 400 to apply a thin film to the underlying item 400. In some embodiments, the thin film can be adhered to an underlying item 400 that does not include a coating, such as a UV coating on the surface to which the thin film is adhered.

[0069] The process can further include operation 914, where the transparent layer 104 of a sheet piece 208 of the plurality of sheet pieces 208 can be bonded, via the adhesive 210 layer, to an underlying item 400. This can include activation of the adhesive layer 210. In some embodiments, the adhesive 210 and or the combination of the transparent layer 104 and the adhesive 210 can comprise a lamination film, and in some embodiments, can be a heat-activated lamination film. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 can be adhered to an underlying item 400 that does not include a coating, such as a UV coating on the surface to which the transparent layer is adhered.

[0069] Once bonded 500, the transparent layer 104 and underlying item 400 form an oversized collectible item 600 with dimensions 302, 304, 402, 404 larger than the corresponding final dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 of the collectible item 100. For example, when the transparent layer 104 is applied 500 to the underlying item 400 the resulting oversized collectible item 600 may be sized to have an allowance around the collectible item’s 100 border. Thus, the resulting product will have dimensions 302, 304, 402, 404 which exceed the dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 of the final collectible item 100. The process 900 can include operation 916, where the oversized collectible item 600 is trimmed 602 to the final dimensions 306, 308, 406, 408 to create the collectible item 100. The final product is a collectible item 100 which can include one or more markings 202, such as printed targets, and signatures 108.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a depiction of one embodiment of an item sheet 1000 of underlying items 102. The item sheet 1000 can comprise a variety of shapes and sizes and can include any desired number of underlying items 102. In some embodiments, the underlying items 102 can be in any desired arrangement on the item sheet 1000 including, for example, in any desired number of rows and/or columns. In some embodiments, the item sheet 1000 can include the same number of underlying items 102 in the same arrangement as on the sheet 200. For example, if the sheet 200 is configured for 6 items arranged in two rows and three columns, the item sheet 1000, as shown in FIG. 10, can likewise be configured for 6 items arranged in two rows and three columns. In some embodiments, the item sheet 1000 can have approximately the same size as the sheet 200 such that the sheet 200 can be laminated onto the item sheet 1000 and collectible items 100 can be cut from the combined sheets 200, 1000.

[0081] The item sheet 1000 can include a front surface 1002 and a back surface. The front surface 1002 can be the surface comprising the image 106. In some embodiments, the front surface 1002 can receive the transparent layer 104 containing the signature, and specifically, the transparent layer 104 containing the signature can be laminated onto the front surface 1002 of the item sheet 1000. In some embodiments, a first transparent layer 104 containing the signature can be laminated onto the front surface 1002 of the item sheet 1000, and in some embodiments, a second transparent layer 104 without a signature can be laminated onto the back surface of the item sheet 1000. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 comprising the signature can be laminated onto the back surface of the item sheet 1000.

[0082] FIG. 11 is a flow chart that illustrates an example process 1100 of creating a plurality of collectible items 100. The process 1100 is described below with respect to use of the envelope 250, but can, in some embodiments, be performed without the envelope 250 via, for example, use of sheet 200 comprising a transparent layer 104, and adhesive layer 210, and a substrate layer 204.

[0083] The process 1100 can include operation 1102, where a sheet 200 comprised of at least a transparent layer 104 and an adhesive layer 210, and an envelope 250 comprising a window 254 is provided. The sheet 200 may be loaded into, and/or positioned in the envelope 250 such that the transparent layer is exposed through the window 254 and the adhesive layer 210 faces the back 256 of the envelope 250. The process 1100 may further include operation 1104, where the envelope 250 containing the sheet 200 can be provided to an individual for signing. For example, one or more sheets 200 in one or more envelopes 254 may be sent to a famous basketball player who can apply their signature 108 one or more times to a transparent layer 104 of a sheet 200. In some instances, the envelope 250 can further include markings 202 (e.g., printed targets) to indicate where on the overlaid transparent layer 104 the one or more signatures 108 should be applied and, thus, guide the individual when signing the sheet 200. The process 1100 may also include operation 1106, where the sheet 200, including the one or more collected signatures 108, is received from the individual. For example, after sending a sheet 200 to a famous basketball player, the sheet 200 can be returned with the inclusion of one or more signatures 108 from the famous basketball player. In some instances, the collection of signatures 118 via the sheet 200 (e.g., providing the sheet 200 to an individual and the return of the sheet 200 with signatures 108 from the individual) may be executed in lieu of collecting signatures via discrete underlying items 102 (e.g., trading card, collectible image, etc.). For example, instead of sending an individual numerous trading cards to sign, one or more sheets 200 can be provided to the individual for signing. The process 1 100 may further include operation 1108, where the item sheet 1000 comprising a plurality of underlying items is received. In some embodiments, the item sheet 1000 can comprise the same number of and positioning of underlying items 102 as signatures and/or space for signatures found on the sheet 200.

[0084] The process 1100 can further include alternative operation 1110, where a thin film is bonded to the item sheet 1000, and specifically to the surface of the item sheet 1000, and specifically to the front surface 1002 of the item sheet 1000. Alternatively, the thin film can be bonded to the item sheet 1000 and specifically to the back surface of the item sheet 1000. In some embodiments, the thin film can be adhered to the item sheet 1000, which item sheet 1000 does not include a coating, such as a UV coating on the surface to which the thin film is adhered. In some embodiments in which the item sheet 1000 does not include a coating such as a UV coating, either the thin film or the transparent layer are bonded directly to the item sheet 1000 without any intervening layer. In some embodiments, the transparent layer 104 can be adhered to an underlying item 400 that does not include a coating, such as a UV coating on the surface to which the transparent layer is adhered. In some embodiments, the thin film layer can comprise a lamination film, and in some embodiments, can be a heat-activated lamination film.

[0085] The process can further include operation 1112, where the transparent layer 104 or the sheet 200 can be bonded, via the adhesive 210 layer, to the item sheet 1000, and specifically to the thin film bonded to the item sheet 1000 in step 1110. In some embodiments, the bonding of the transparent layer 104 of the sheet 200 to the item sheet 1000 can include activation of the adhesive layer 210. Once bonded, the sheet 200 and the item sheet 1000 form a single sheet comprising a plurality of collectible items 100. The process 1100 can include operation 114, where the collectible items 100 are cut out of the bonded sheet 200 and item sheet 1000. In some embodiments, this can include cutting the collectible items 100 from the bonded sheet 200 and item sheet 1000, which collectible items 100 can have their final size. [0086] The specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.

[0087] Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.

[0088] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0089] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is intended to be understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[0090] Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0091] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

Claims

1. A method of manufacturing a collectible item, the method comprising: providing a sheet comprising at least a substrate layer and a transparent layer, the substrate layer being adhered to the transparent layer via an adhesive; cutting the sheet into a plurality of sheet pieces, a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces having dimensions larger than corresponding final dimensions of a collectible item; providing an underlying item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; adhering, via the adhesive, the transparent layer of a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; and trimming the oversized collectible item to the final dimensions to create the collectible item.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the transparent layer comprises an optically transparent polymer.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the transparent layer and the underlying item are conterminous when the transparent layer is applied to the underlying item.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the sheet includes printed targets.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the printed targets are located on the substrate layer under the transparent layer of the sheet.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the printed targets are visible through the transparent layer of the sheet.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: providing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet; and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer overlaying a unique one of the printed targets.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the underlying item has a length and width greater than a corresponding length and width of the collectible item.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces has approximately a same width and length as the underlying item.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: rolling the oversized collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet piece to the underlying item.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming together at least the underlying item and the sheet piece adhered to the underlying item.

14. The method of claim 13, where trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming the oversized collectible item with a guillotine cutter.

15. A collectible item comprising: a transparent layer comprising one or more signatures on a first top surface of the transparent layer; an underlying item including one or more images; and an optically transparent adhesive adhering the transparent layer to the underlying item, wherein the transparent layer and the underlying item are together trimmed to same dimensions.

16. The collectible item of claim 1 , wherein the transparent layer comprises an optically transparent polymer.

17. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the underlying item and the transparent layer are conterminous.

18. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the underlying item comprises at least one of cardstock or paper.

19. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the underlying item comprises a photo.

20. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the transparent layer is glossy.

21. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the transparent layer is adhered to the underlying item prior to trimming the underlying item and transparent layer to dimensions corresponding to the collectible item.

22. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the optically transparent adhesive adheres a first bottom surface of the transparent layer to a second top surface of the underlying item.

23. The collectible item of claim 15, wherein the underlying item includes printed targets visible through the transparent layer, wherein the transparent layer includes one or more signatures located on a portion of the transparent layer overlaying a unique of the of the printed targets.

24. A method of manufacturing a collectible item, the method comprising: providing an envelope comprising a window, the envelope containing a sheet comprising a transparent layer and an adhesive layer; cutting the sheet into a plurality of sheet pieces, a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces having dimensions larger than corresponding final dimensions of a collectible item; providing an underlying item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; bonding, via the adhesive layer, the transparent layer of a sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces to the underlying item forming an oversized collectible item having dimensions larger than the corresponding final dimensions of the collectible item; and trimming the oversized collectible item to the final dimensions to create the collectible item.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the transparent layer comprises an optically transparent polymer.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein the transparent layer and the underlying item are conterminous when the transparent layer is applied to the underlying item.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein the envelope includes printed targets.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the printed targets are located on a back of the envelope.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the printed targets are visible through the window when the envelope is in a closed configuration.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: providing the envelope containing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet; and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer corresponding to a unique one of the printed targets.

32. The method of claim 24, wherein the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer.

33. The method of claim 24, wherein the underlying item has a length and width greater than a corresponding length and width of the collectible item.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the sheet piece of the plurality of sheet pieces has approximately a same width and length as the underlying item.

35. The method of claim 24, further comprising: activating the adhesive layer; and rolling the oversized collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet piece to the underlying item.

36. The method of claim 24, wherein trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming together at least the underlying item and the sheet piece adhered to the underlying item.

37. The method of claim 36, where trimming the oversized collectible item includes trimming the oversized collectible item with a guillotine cutter.

38. A method of manufacturing a collectible item, the method comprising: providing an envelope comprising a window, the envelope containing a sheet comprising a transparent layer and an adhesive layer; bonding, via the adhesive layer, the transparent layer of the sheet to an item sheet comprising a plurality of underlying items; and cutting a plurality of collectible items from the bonded sheet and item sheet.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the transparent layer comprises an optically transparent polymer.

40. The method of claim 38 wherein the transparent layer of the sheet and the item sheet are conterminous when the transparent layer of the sheet is applied to the item sheet.

41. The method of claim 38, wherein the envelope includes printed targets.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the printed targets are located on a back of the envelope.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the printed targets are visible through the window when the envelope is in a closed configuration.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising: providing the envelope containing the sheet to an individual for signing of the sheet; and receiving the sheet from the individual with signatures on the sheet.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein each of the signatures is located on a portion of the transparent layer corresponding to a unique one of the printed targets.

46. The method of claim 38, wherein the sheet includes signatures applied to the transparent layer.

47. The method of claim 38, further comprising: activating the adhesive layer; and rolling the collectible item with a pressure roller to adhere the sheet to item sheet.

48. The method of claim 38, further comprising: activating the adhesive layer; and compressing the collectible item to adhere the sheet to item sheet.

49. The method of claim 38, further comprising bonding a thin film layer to the item sheet before bonding the transparent layer to the item sheet.

50. The method of claim 48, wherein the item sheet does not include a UV layer, and wherein the thin film layer is bonded directly to the item sheet with no intervening layer.