I was recently tipped off that a 20th Anniversary chip was issued at Club One in Fresno -- 3 years ago. News travels slowly out of that city. Today I drove there to see for myself, and yes, the anniversary chips still circulate - in somewhat used condition, as would be expected. But I was doubly surprised to turn up a Heartland Poker Tour $5 chip from 2014 or so. The cashier who sold me a small supply of each was surprised that I was buying them as a collector. She advised me not to hang onto them for very long, because some day the casino would take them out of circulation and they will become worthless. She sends a message to all Chip Collectors: do not take chips out of the casino and cash in all you have. A second cashier who took over the cage a few minutes later told me that there are definitely NO special $5 chips, just the house ones. (I didn't mention those special ones I had in my trousers pockets.)

I will bring a couple of each to the Convention but remember, anyone who wants one absolutely has to return it to the Club One after a short time period to satisfy the cashier!

And this is why "new" (3-year-old) California issues are so tough to come by.