It is sad to see new chip collectors leave this great hobby after a few years of collecting. There can be many reasons for leaving, loss of disposable income, loss of income, new interest elsewhere, disillusionment, health, etc. But I wonder how many leave because they find this is a hobby first and a business second. Isn't the first rule of collecting anything to collect it because you like it, not because you'll make money on it?
In my own case, I live remotely and seldom get chips for face value. I know that in buying chips from dealers I will pay a premium over face that I most probably will never recover. My passion for this hobby has led me to sometimes pay several times face value for new issue chips that I really want (RCI only). It is the thrill of the hunt not the prospect of making money that drives me.

So just a word of caution. Collect first because you really have a passion for the hobby. Collect second as an investment because if that is your goal you may be quickly be disappointed. Now if you truly have deep pockets and can afford to get in high end chips that is a totally different scenario. Others may have a different viewpoint and that is fine. But for newbies, remember the first rule and you will be a happy chipper.