Abstract: Some implementations of the invention allow patrons to earn a “collectible” during the course of playing a wagering game. A collectible (and/or a hierarchy of collectibles) may be associated with a particular casino. While playing a game, a player may have options to redeem one or more collectibles. In some such implementations, a collectible may activate special game features, such as a special bonus round, a higher paytable for a defined period of time, or other features described in detail herein. A collectible may persist after a gaming session is completed. Some implementations of the invention provide persistent collectibles only for patrons who are members of a player loyalty program. However, other implementations of the invention provide persistent collectibles even for patrons who are not members of a player loyalty program.