Ed,

Here's my take on your question. I separate Illegals into three separate groups. First, and the one's I collect are chips from joints that provided illegal gambling to the public. They would include most of the NK illegal places, Beverly Hills, Lookout Club, Merchants, etc. and existed in many cities across the nation.

Second, are the legit Private Clubs that allow their members to play cards for money and provide chips for the games. These would include The Queen City Club in Cincinnati, the Pittsburgh Athletic Association, etc. most very upscale and very private. I played poker a few times in one of these clubs with members at their regular Thursday night games.

Thisd, are the fraternal clubs, the Elks, the Moose, the American Legion, etc. also private, but with an almost open membership and not particularly upscale to say the least. I belong to the Moose Club and the American Legion, both have had slot machines at times, and often have regular card games and provide their chips.

Personally, I have little or no interest in the fraternal club chips and collect Private Club chips only in areas where I collect other Illegals.

Jim