Sorts of Exotic

Through various videos and trailers for Destiny it's been explained that you can acquire exotic weapons and armor, which I am psyched for as I am sure we all are but I want to know are those the only collectables? In different RPG's there always seems to be something that you can collect for your own, as in a rare piece of art or an ancient shield that was once wielded by a hero, can 'us' guardians ponder over an exotic relic of the 'golden age' and put it over the fireplace? Also I'd like to know if there are exotic species after the collapse; a rare beast deep within a cave; a flying snake carrying a Cabal to its nest. I would like to know if this world is a world that will keep you wanting more.