I first started coming to Vegas from Ca. in the mid 70's loved the shrimp cocktails, the fun books and the smaller places all over Vegas and the fact back then that no one would card you (under 21) as time went by and I gambled more and more you wern't a number but a name just loved how some guy would give you his card and write something on the back and you be off to dinner and a great show. Getting to chips I had allways picked a few where ever I was staying or playing usally $5's. Although I never really started collecting chips offically until 2008 (because I didn't know there was any value) after the Silver Strike programs went south and that hobby went in the tank I had collected over 70 of the $200's and a heck of a lot more of the $7's. One big factor was the board I used to go to the The Strike Point everyday and towards the end of silver striking started looking at the The Chip Board. First thing I noticed was how many posts and how people seemed like a family there. The $5 Moulan Rouge Can Can ( spell check) that my Dad had given me many years ago as he was there opening night with a friend of his that was a pit boss at the Sands....LOL when I found out how much it was worth new condition I about fell out my chair. Started looking at other chips I had and the rest was history. I allways liked the whole state of Nevada and made up my mind on collecting nothing but 1st issue or rare $5's.........I joined the club (Thanks Archie) and learned from all the posts and great people here as well as great websites. It's in my blood in the begining I probably payed to much because I was in a hurry to get up to speed......My best advice to anyone if your looking for rare at least for me take your time I only collect SU or better. THANKS TO ALL THE MEMBERS FOR AN EDUCATION THAT NEVER STOPS. In ending as I said before I have more expensive $5's but that Bucket of Blood is my Favorite.