I agree with a lot of what Paul says. I think it is because the hobby is growing and will continue to grow. The values that are being quoted are coming from the books that chippers are writing. We need these books but they are intended only for a guide. Chippers will put their own value on what they want. Since I've been on this board I have found many chippers willing to trade face for face. I personally have never paid overface or sold over face, for a current chip and I believe my (current chips) collection is as big as most.
I recommend that new chippers stay with current chips until they get the feel for the hobby.
If you deside the hobby is not for you, it is easy to cash them out.