I just got this from the guy who sold me the chips, and old timer in Montana:

"This was one of the oldest bars in Livingston. It had to be from

the early 20s or before. It was an old cowboy and ranchers hangout

when they came to town. They had some round tables covered with

black oilcloth. Up until about 1992 all gambling was illegal

in Montana. I do not think

the place was ever raided; they tolerated the games as the old

boys had nothing else to do. Players would buy chips from the bartender and cash them

in there. It was a typical old Western bar where a farmer or rancher or

anyone could lean back in an old type captains chair and go to sleep.

In the late 20s and early 30s no one had any money

so most of the bets were nickels and dimes. "