...about that during the early round when the 25 NCV chips were in play. That's why I didn't harvest any. I figured that I'd only think about taking the chips when I got heads up. I took the 100 NCV chip when I had a comfortable 12,000 to 3,000 chip lead. They colored up the green 25 NCV chips during a break when we were all away from the table. My 2 extra got me a 100 NCV chip, so I thought there might be an odd amount of the black 100 NCV chip left in play and less obvious if I took one. Since there were only 10 of the purple 500 NCV chip in play it would have been pretty obvious if I pocketed one during play, so I waited until I won the final hand and the casino employees were busy making the payouts. But your point is well taken.

And thanks for all of the other interesting replies about harvesting tournament chips. This explains the reaction I got from the dealer when I tipped him and then asked if I could have one of the green chips as a souvenir. I know I've seen individual chips and even sets posted on the ChipBoard from other casinos, so I assumed this was a standard practice just as roulette harvesting is (although a bit more expensive). I'll see if the ebay price makes it worth the risk. So far there are a couple mininal bids (but over 13 watchers on each ). In the meantime I think I’ll take Gene’s advice and avoid the Venetian Poker room this trip. Thanks Gene.

I was surprised that when I asked the dealer during the 4-8 game if I could buy one of their $4 rake chips he said yes. Maybe they're planning on using them in future 4-8 games instead of all this piles of white $1 chips.

When I get back home next week I’ll have to scan the chips and pass the images along to be posted on the ChipGuide.