The Sparks Nugget has discontinued use of Brass Core chips after some 23 years and the new rack chips are on the tables. I spoke to the controller and the redemption period will begin on Jan 1st or earlier if publication is posted on time. They are no longer available at the cage since each shift will have them sent to the vault for counting and ultimate destruction after April. That leaves only the Hyatt and Silver Smith with brass core chips so I believe this will enter an era of the LAST OF THE BRASS. Jim Pontillo has sold the company to Chipco which will produce bi-metal chips with the next issue being the Chinese New Years issue to Hollywood Park in February.