Duke,
I will try to answer your inquiry. In order to be knowledgable and have the background to grade chips one must have experience. What type of experience?
Experience involving the specific chip to be graded.

Many of us who specialize in Nevada chips have the background to grade only Nevada chips. Where the problem comes in is concerning the molds. Certain type of molds will wear poorly others like the cord mold wear like iron. To have this type of knowledge one must study "our "hobby". Studing our hobby is a life time job. When I study a Nevada chip it is to extract the history of the casino involved. The types of molds used. Why certain chips were on the table for a short time while others seem to have been left for ever, etc. Howver, I never studied Nevada chips with an eye towards grading. Could I grade them - sure. Why would I want too? For me a well worn chip has history and character. A brand new chip, in my opinion, has nothing.

To my knowledge there are several individuals who have backgrounds involving Indian and Riverboat chips. They can tell you all about these type of chips - but they have no grading ability. Why? They didn't collect Indian and riverboat chips with the purpose of grading them. Could they grade them? I'm sure they could. However, I believe they would tell you the same thing I am telling you. Why would I want too!!! Best, Jim