From an investment standpoint, this pricing model actually tilts in favor of collectors and portfolio holders. The math is straightforward—unsealed variants come in cheaper, making entry points more accessible despite the inherent risk of tampering during handling and storage. That trade-off between affordability and authenticity concerns is the real tension here.

But here's where it gets interesting for the player side: they take the hit. Lower accessibility combined with authenticity concerns means less participation in the ecosystem.

Sealed boxes, though? They command a premium now. Why? Tamper-proof integrity becomes the asset itself. You're not just buying the product—you're buying the guarantee that what's inside remains exactly as intended. That peace of mind has its price tag, and the market clearly values it.