We have a problem in our hobby with the term "sample chip" and the much newer (early-90's) term "prototype chip" which can be, and is, misleading... which the hobby needs to address.

Example... How does anyone know (without documentation) that when any manufactuer; anywhere in the world, decided to make a batch of new samples, decided to take the precaution by making chips that were safe to distribute with knowing the casino is no longer in operation which, can lead collectors to believe those samples were made when those chips and casino was operating... (of course, in most cases; they would be notched, drilled or shaved corner)... and, if even further precarious were used, such as insert configuration or color tones...?