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A Career in Resin and Crystal: Thomas Emmons’ Remarkable Deal Toy Collection
August 27, 2025,
In
50 Years of Deal Toys
A Career in Resin and Crystal: Thomas Emmons’ Remarkable Deal Toy Collection
For Thomas Emmons, each deal toy in his extensive collection tells a story. With over 40 years of experience in investment banking, Thomas has amassed hundreds of deal toys dating back to the 1970s. From simple acrylic blocks to intricate modern designs, his collection doesn’t just celebrate individual achievements—it chronicles an entire career.
This tangible “resume” is more than just a showcase of deals closed or milestones reached. It’s a time capsule documenting decades of dedication, collaboration, and success in one of the most challenging and rewarding industries.
More Than a Trophy: A Legacy in Design
In the fast-paced world of finance, it’s easy to let the past blur into a series of deadlines and transactions. That’s where deal toys stand apart. They’re not just awards; they’re tangible memories.
Thomas’ collection is living proof. Looking at his earliest pieces, you see the humble beginnings of his career—clear blocks with embedded text, marking his first steps into the industry. As time passes, the designs evolve, reflecting his professional growth and the changing landscape of deal toy design. By the 2000s, you can see pieces highlighting the industries he’s worked in, the companies he’s partnered with, and the creativity he brought to every deal.
What makes this collection so unique is its longevity. A deal toy isn’t just for the moment; it’s for the future. It’s something you can display, revisit, and share—not just with colleagues but with family and friends who may not fully understand the scope of your work! Use them to show off; we don’t judge.
The Importance of Quality
A collection like Thomas Emmons’ doesn’t happen by chance. It requires thoughtful investment in quality pieces that stand the test of time. At Altrum, we understand that every deal toy isn’t just a product; it’s a piece of history.
Choosing suitable materials, design, and craftsmanship ensures that your deal toys will look just as impressive in 40 years as they do today. When you invest in a high-quality deal toy, you create something that will outlast fleeting digital records or spreadsheets.
Think of it this way: a deal toy is a keepsake that your children might one day admire, asking about the deals you closed or the industries you helped shape. It’s a legacy that lives on long after the contract ink has dried!
Deal toys are often described as a “physical diary” of one’s career. For Thomas, each piece reminds him of a unique challenge, a great team, and a hard-earned success. They also reflect how far he’s come, from the simple beginnings of his career to the heights of leading complex transactions.
For anyone in the investment banking world, Thomas’s story is a powerful reminder of the value of celebrating milestones. Deal toys aren’t just about the moment but about the journey. They remind you not just of where you are but of how far you’ve come in your career, the hurdles you’ve leaped over, and the significant accomplishments you’ve achieved!
Start Building Your Legacy Today
Whether you are just starting your career or nearing retirement, a deal toy collection is a meaningful way to document your achievements. It’s a way to honor your hard work and preserve those memories for years to come.
At Altrum, we’re here to help you create pieces that inspire and endure! Like Thomas Emmons, you can build a collection that isn’t just a reflection of your career but a testament to the legacy you’ve built.
