The only chips with a large lead weight are the Christy & Jones H&C's that were made between 1955 and the mid 1960's. All of the chips with the lead weight have an inlay covering the weight. It is not exposed so you will not be contaminated by touching them. How many of you handle lead sinkers when you go fishing? Are you worried about them? I wouldn't reccomend chewing on a sinker but you won't do any harm by touching. Besides, there are better things to chew on.

B.C. Wills and Paulson used brass or copper flecks in their clay to add weight, as Gene attested to. No harm here either unless you put them in your mouth. It is a good idea to keep all chips away from babies and small children, but don't be afraid to handle them yourself.