Archie:

No, I wouldn't pay a dime more for a cleaned chip. But wouldn't you think that if you're paying 2x-100x face for a chip and a dealer's making a ton of money on that chip, the least thing they could do would be to present the product in the best light. Coming from a marketing background here.

I migrated from the coin/currency collecting. There's quite a bit of attrition in the numismatic hobby from old timers kicking the bucket. When I go to my coin meetings, I'm the youngest member there. The most exciting thing for those old timers is seeing each other surviving another meeting. No kidding, in the 2 clubs I belong to, 1/2 a dozen or so members have said their final farewells in the last year. However, CC&GTCC is growing, the enthusiasm spreads like wildfire. Though the numbers are quite there, I'm really excited about being at my first annual CCGTCC show. (I just wished someone would have told me sooner about the big trade night on Wednesday)

As a novice chipper, I've been researching the hobby the best I can. And though I've got a lot of questions, everyone I've spoken to so far has been incredibly curtious, patient, and helpful. Thank you.

Look forward to meeting many of the individuals on the bulleting board in person.

John

P.S. I guess I'll pick up a 50 gallon drum of chip cleaner at the show.