There are lots of unknown chips around... like the Phils chips discussed here. I wouldn't call them fakes or forgeries (though some on this board might). To date, you have a very small probability of getting a forgery when you buy a chip. That may change as the hobby becomes better known. Chips that sell for $1000 and more can probably be reproduced for a lot less than that and someone will undoubtedly try. They have in the coin business. For expensive chips, best to buy from a dealer or hobbiest that's been around a while. If the forgeries become widespread, dealer certificates of authenticity and grade may appear in the chip hobby as they have for coins.