experiences over a couple years..I overspent on a bunch of chips (Colorado chipcos and some Nevada ones)That looked like great buys at the time..One or two may be worth more nowadays and I have a book of CO chips just set aside now and we'll see what happens..

As far as a hobby,I've blown though so much $ on maintaining a 28 gallon aquarium that's pleasing to look at with all the work/time involved where there is 0 chance this will be resold at face value or more.

But the cool thing about the hobby is finding those chips that someone has tucked away in drawers and forgotten about etc..Get the word out to your friends,co-workers,check your local Craigslist...

In a few days I'll be cashing $326 in LV chips from a craigslist local ad that eventually cost me 0$...(After buying them and other live Austrailan and London chips I sold on ebay.Seller traveled a lot and found the chips housecleaning (Twice !) Two meet-ups in person..

My best chips come from a friends neighbor who upon casual conversation about me,found a few '60's PuertoRico chips in his drawer...
Sold one on ebay to finance some chip buys here for the collection..

Just saying hang in there or collect just live chips...P.S..first chip I ever bought was a unc Bills LV chip now closed and will be the cromwell soon..(former Barbary Coast)..Paid $3 or 4 for it...Bet I could get more for it now being perfect condition..

Just hang in there as others have said and put the word out you're looking for casino chips! Good Luck