I totally agree with Gene's point. One does not have to collect every chip issued. People can specialize in an area, ie: state, denomination, planes, trains, Christmas, etc. And realize, I can turn them into cash the day the need arises. The longer to get to that point, the more the chip grows in value or, if really desparate, I can turn most back to the casino and get my money. At this point in time, chips give me a better return for my buck than the stock market.