I've always asked first.... especially at ports of
call when shore time is limited. Besides, once the pit or the shift know you're a collector you may just be surprised as to what they might have tucked away. Remember, you should let the whole world know you're a collector and not keep it a secret.
I'll have chips, jetons and plaques from over 500 foreign casinos within 72-different countries at the Biloxi Blast.

JB