About Us
Welcome to Riptide Collectibles, your premier online destination for sports cards, trading card games, and unique memorabilia. Based in Topsail, North Carolina, we are passionate about connecting collectors with high-quality, authentic products at fair prices. Whether you're a seasoned veteran chasing rare hits or just beginning your collecting journey, we're here to provide an exceptional experience built on trust, expertise, and a genuine love for the hobby.
Our Story
Riptide Collectibles represents the next exciting chapter in a journey that began in 2017. What started as JT’s Sports Cards & Collectibles in a tiny 400 sq ft storefront in Loves Park, Illinois, grew into a thriving multi-location business through dedication, resilience, and customer support.
From humble beginnings with limited inventory and very little starting capital, we built strong relationships with distributors, launched our first website, introduced popular "Pick-A-Pack" breaks, and hosted live shows.
By 2019–2020, the business had grown to over $1.5 million in annual sales. In 2021, we expanded by purchasing and renovating a commercial property, opening a second location focused on sports cards as well as anime and gaming.
At our peak, we operated two stores, employed a dedicated team, and created a vibrant community around the hobby we love. Though industry challenges in 2022 led us to sell the property and take a step back, the passion never faded.
In late 2025, we returned to the hobby with renewed energy and a fresh perspective. We've rebranded as Riptide Collectibles and are now based in the beautiful coastal town of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina — part of the Topsail area along the Crystal Coast. We're applying everything we've learned over the past nine years to build something even better
What We Stand For
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Authenticity First — Every product we offer is sourced through legitimate, authorized distribution channels. We stand behind the authenticity of everything we sell.
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Customer Obsessed — Our collectors are the heart of this business. We pride ourselves on fair pricing, fast shipping, clear communication, and building long-term relationships.
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Community Driven: — We believe collecting is more fun together. That's why we host high-energy live breaks, group events, and create spaces where collectors can connect.
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Smart & Sustainable Growth: — We've learned from the challenges of the industry. Today, we're more focused, selective with inventory, and committed to steady, responsible growth.
Meet the Founders
Justin & Trysha are lifelong collectors who turned their passion into a business in 2017. After navigating the highs and lows of the hobby industry, they're back with Riptide Collectibles — smarter, more experienced, and more excited than ever to serve the collecting community.
Here’s to many more years of chasing cards, building collections, and enjoying this amazing hobby together.
Justin & Trysha
