Maybe????
Were they purchased with the TKS samples from TKS?
I think it makes a difference.

I do not know if they were used on the tables at BD's or not.
They could have been shipped and returned as they were too close in color to the 10¢. They could have been samples presented to the owner and rejected, without ever seeing any play.
Were the shipping records of TKS purchased along the the samples, also. If so the story should be in them. Something like - "Maroon $25 shipped at a later date than the rest of the rack." It might even say replacement.
Nothing was said to the owner about the black $25 when the other chips were purchased. You are right, she might not remember anyway.

"Why am I asking"
Because I like to know about "chips", it is my hobby. I believe you are pretty free when it comes to asking questions. I do not automaticly accept what a dealer or collector says. Do you? Lets find out if its a "DUCK" if we can.

Yes I have the BD's chips. No I do not have the black $25.
I would like to know all there is to know about it, so I can deside what I would pay if the opprotunity ever arose.

I would not pay the same for a sample chip that I would pay for a chip, I knew was used on the tables. If the truth is out there, I want to know. Don't you???

If "The Truth is out there" lets hear it!!!!! Maybe it ain't out there.