I think you have it Don. We use them, eBay sellers use the TCR numbers, dealers use them, chip catalogs use them... I would say the history of free use would prevent selective claims against specific groups or persons that are no different than all the previous users. The case would be a waste of time and money.

KM&W have given us a gift to help make sense out of a complicated history and catalogue. As a result, everyone, including some who are less than welcome, are able to use the reference and it's numbering system.