That is correct... my question was concerning the missing nummbers (the 2 and 5 can not be seen for those who can't see the scan) leaving only the "0" -- reverse is "normal".) I have gotten several e-mails explaining the plastic coating and that this "imperfection" has been somewhat "common" in these chips.

My scale must be off because mine weighs 14+ g (which puts it "in between" the brass and bi-metal weights... but if there is extra media on this one... that may account for the increase in weight. But I knew it was a bi-metal (later version) as it DOES have the reeded edges and is too light to be a brass core.
(Lessons learned at the University of Mel - no diploma forecoming for ME yet... LOL)

Thanks for all the imput, info and opinions. I think it is interesting and different and am glad I got one!
jsb