I think you are underestimating the number of people in this hobby who have very deep pockets. I've paid $1000 for a single $25 chip and $350 for a single $1 chip, and I'm small potatoes compared to some of these folks!

Don's estimate is probably close. There are a few who collect live $500's, and I know of at least one who has bought $1000, $2000 and $5000 chips straight from the cage! ...not just to scan them then cash them in, they are sitting in his collection!