I went over it several times with my source (my Mother). We event went to Andy's wonderful site with so many molds shown (including the "T" Mold) and my Mom is adamant. The chips were "embossed" with her Father's initials and they repeated around the edge, on both sides. As it turns out, I will probably have access to several of these chips because some remain with the family. I am now going through the process to ask other family members if they have any.

It seems that my Grandfather (a Political Boss in Springfield, IL) was about two weeks away from opening a new Illegal joint in Downtown Springfield, when he died of a heart attack. He had already named the place ("The Corner" as it was located at the corner of 4th and Monroe, major streets in Springfield), had chips on-hand (all brand new), three craps tables, and some slot machines. When he died the place never opened, and the chips went to the family. My Mother (and her siblings) played with them for years and some still remain with the family. The craps tables went to the local American Legion and were converted into pool tables. The year was 1947.

Previously, my Grandfather had three other Illegal joints. One in Springfield called "Harmony Hall" at 1720 W. Monroe. Another in Sherman, IL called the "Hideaway", and a third in Riverton, IL, name unknown. All three offered craps and slots. The mistress was allowed to operate a Chuck-Luck at Harmony Hall. Harmony Hall had two issues of chips. The first was generic. The second had a musical Treble Clef (sp)on one side and "Harmony Hall" on the other.

More to come later. Happy Holidays. I'll be in Vegas Thursday.

Jim Follis (in LA)