I did a little catch-up. Here is my story. I discovered this hobby about 7 months ago. Knew nothing of the hobby, except that I liked the artwork on some chips and was looking for something new to collect. I was blessed to find this hobby. Because I didn't know anything about chips (on day one), I learned evertything I could and learned about the club . In doing so, I learned and got help from many chippers and they often would send me their personal when I bought a few of their chips. Well, then I learned that there were all these people, from all around the world that loved this hobby even more then I did. And not only was I interested in the casino chips but the hobby itself and those involved in it. So, I began collecting 'personal' chips as much as I did 'casino' chips. They are as important to me and my development in the hobby as any chip and to me they are as valued. I am a pure collector and collect for the fun of it. And you'd be surprised how amazing some personals are. The artwork on many easily surpass casino chips in overall originality. And when you really think of it, the history of the hobby is not just the casinos or card rooms but the ones that collect chips. I dare say that we are making new history today, as collectors, for the next generation of collectors and those who paved the way (and may have made personals) are also important parts of its rich history.
I hope you don't leave this hobby. I don't think I ever spoke to you before. The more great chippers the better!!

Cheers to you,
Derek Bistricky R-8169