I think Mr. Birl brings up some interesting points, although I don't agree with them all ... it is interesting to see how fellow collectors see the present day market.

The first thing to consider, as with any hobby, is if we are considering it through the eyes of a 'pure' collector or as a collector/dealer.

For myself, it is from the eyes of a 'pure' collector (meaning, that as I develop my knowledge in the chip hobby, my intentions is not to buy or trade for investment(s) but to collect chips which interest my family and I). I have been able to establish my chip collection through over 100 trades and generally wise purchases (over the course of 8 months). Someone could offer me a chip that is listed in a 'guide' as $100 for $40 and unless I 'really' need it for my specific favored areas of interests (mainly Cali, Colorado, Washington, Canada and Personals), then even though it might appear to be a great deal, I would likely have little interest in it. In this case, its not about 'value' because the chip would only be useful to me for 'trade'.

One amazing chipper (and fellow chip club member) comes to mind. I have definately bought over 100 chips from him this year. He is a collector / dealer. Sometimes, I buy chips from him for the price he advertised. Other times, I email him and offer a slightly lower price for some chips. And only once did he make a 'counter-offer' ... otherwise, he says 'its yours'. And to make things better, I pay him for the chips in a monthly basis. And when chips he wishes to sell doesn't move ... he often reduces the price. He has made it possible for me (and others) to 'get into' the hobby and I thank him many times for this. Would he wish to sell his chips always at the initial asking price (most definately) but is it realistic ... obviously not. I know that I will get great quality chip for a 'fair' price ... and because I know this, I have returned over and over again to buy more. He could 'sit' on them, but I wouldn't have bought over 100 chips.

I am 'one' of the 'market'. And the market dictates what price collectors are willing to pay. Otherwise, when a chipper cheers on the 'board about getting a great 'highly valued' chip for an amazingly low price, should we cheer for them (which we do) or should we be negative.

Last thought .... want values to increase and what the buyer is willing to pay .... more collectors need to join the ranks of this hobby. In the past two weeks, I have got two "COLLECTORS" in my city very interested in the chip hobby which for them is a hobby they never considered.

Cheers to all.

Derek Bistricky R-8169