I remember that usage in Howdy's book. However, the terms have evolved since then.
For example, half-pie now refers to 2 colors of equal size (including the specialized half-pie known as a dovetail). A 1/4-pie is now a chip that looks like a pie cut into 4 pieces, made with 2 alternating colors. (Additionally, a 1/4-pie with an inlay placed on top looks like 4 distinct pieces, but is actually a "bow-tie" shape main color, and 2 large inserts of a different color. At least, some are made this way.)

I can't give a specific date for the change, but it you look at Classic Poker Chips website, you will see these current descriptions.

Meanings change over time. As another example, I remember hearing (from Gene T., I think) that the old-time sales reps for the chip companies used to refer to any chip with an inlay as a "crest & seal" ... as different from a hot-stamped chip.