The Weekly Rip 5.18.25 [1/1s]
I explore the over saturation of 1/1s in this week's newsletter and how might consider collecting 1/1s in this era.
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The Weekly Rip
Your Stacking Slabs Sunday Update
May 18, 2025
I used to think every one of one mattered.
Back then, the idea of owning a card that nobody else in the world could have felt electric. It was personal. It was proof. And most of all, it was rare.
But that’s changed.
Today, there’s an overwhelming flood of products, each packed with one of ones, each trying to scream louder than the last. For every true grail, there’s a dozen cards labeled as “rare” that sit unsold. That’s not scarcity. That’s marketing.
In next week’s flagship episode of Stacking Slabs, I’m breaking down what happens when the hobby’s most sacred concept—rarity—gets watered down. This week, I wanted to share what’s been on my mind as I’ve tried to make sense of it all.
Here’s what I’ve learned.
You don’t collect a one of one because it says “1/1” on the back.
You collect it because it means something to you. Because it checks more boxes than just the print run. Because when you open your case and see it, it hits different.
That might be because it’s from a product that has real history. Because the design actually stops you in your tracks. Because it captures a story you don’t want to forget. But it’s never just because of the stamp.
I’ve been digging into this with my Tyrese Haliburton collection. He’s got 106 base card rookie one of ones in his rookie year. 14 in Select alone. That’s before you even factor in inserts, autos, or parallels from other sets.
So what does 1/1 really mean anymore?
I’ve started asking myself a simple question before I buy:
If this card were out of 10, out of 25, or out of 99—would I still care about it?
If the answer is no, I’m probably getting caught up in the hype. And hype doesn’t hold value. Story does.
There’s nothing wrong with loving one of ones. I still do. I picked up one recently that I can’t wait to share. But I didn’t buy it because it was a one of one. I bought it because it fit. Because it meant something.
Collect what makes you feel something. Don’t chase labels. Chase stories.
We don’t collect numbers.
We collect meaning.
And in a hobby where everyone is shouting for your attention, being selective is your greatest edge.
More next week on the pod.
Stacking Slabs + PSA = W
I’m pumped to be partnering back up with PSA on the Vaulted series. The first episode was released this week. You’ll learn how I’ve gone from zero vault usage to a hybrid approach and the reasons why. Make sure you check out the episode. For further information learn more about the PSA Vault and PSA Consignment.
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Collectors are joining Stacking Slabs Patreon to consume exclusive content, connect with other collectors, and promote their cards. I’m putting out new collector focused content in the group on a daily basis and it’s the hub for all of SSP’s video content. If you’re enjoying what I’m putting out on the main feeds check out what the group has to offer. I appreciate your attention and commitment to helping grow the damn brand. Join Today
It was week 2 of the From 3 series in the Stacking Slabs Patreon. This week we dug into the 20025 Upper Deck Alexander Ovechin recent sale. It was fun to explore the demand for a legend like Ovi in a debut product that’s got /99 copies. I discussed the fact that 25% of his RPA sales happened in 2025 and what that might mean for the impact of the card long term. I’m not a hockey card collector, however, it’s fun to dig into data around hockey cards that matter.
A Collector to Follow
I don’t collect soccer cards, but I love learning about the category from collectors like @kuma_bailee. Jeff is a passionate soccer card collector who posts his collection frequently. If you’re a fan of soccer cards or looking to level up your knowledge around soccer cards this page is for you.
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Take care,
Brett