... Larry:

>> The market will dictate what products are
>> successful, and there simply isn't a market
>> for slabbing chips.

The "market" isn't some unthinking, monolithic entity that somehow knows what is or isn't a good product. The chip "market" is, for the most part, chip collectors -- us.

Whether or not a particular service, such as slabbing, will succeed depends entirely on whether we are willing to buy it. AND, whether a particular service provider (such as ICG or Collector's Universe) will attempt to provide a particular service will depend largely on whether or not we encourage that service. That can take the form of buying (or not) the product -- or in otherwise making our views known by encouraging (or not) the service or product.

IF ICG and/or Collector's Universe have reached or do reach the conclusion that there is no market for slabbed chips, they have done or will do so based in large part on the vocal opposition to slabbing which has arisen in the collector "market", including "The List", the Slabfree Chapter and the numerous BB posts.

I am satisfied that "The List" and the Slabfree Chapter have served the club and the hobby well in helping to drive home the message that we do not want slabbing in our hobby. That there may have been some intemperate remarks and confrontations along the way doesn't, in my opinion, diminish the worth of the effort.

>> The best way to prevent the very real problems
>> that threatened the coin hobby is to remain
>> united as a group.

The vast majority of collectors who have spoken on the issue agree that we should fight slabbing. The only reason that we have not been entirely united on this issue is that the remaining minority has not joined in -- which is okay. On any issue of importance, there will always be divergent opinions and minority viewpoints.

>> As long as this is a hobby dominated by
>> honest dealers and collectors, we will survive.

I couldn't agree more with that observation. And, for the most part, we are fortunate to have a group of dealers and collectors who ARE honest. While I disagree with and will not patronize dealers who buy or sell slabbed chips, that should not be taken as an indication that I think they are dishonest. I just disagree with the economic and business judgement being exercised.

>> We will accomplish more by shunning
>> dishonest dealers than by banning slabs.

While this observation may or may not be correct (I haven't the foggiest idea whether it is or not), the two objectives are NOT mutually exclusive. There is no reason why we can't do both at the same time, to the greater benefit of the club and the hobby.

I know you don't entirely share my views on slabbing, particularly with respect to prohibiting them at the convention, etc. I remain convinced, however, that this is a beast which is best slain.

I also think we have the slabbers on the ropes at the moment and should continue our efforts to keep them out of chipping. My military (and athletic) experience has convinced me that when you have an opponent down, you should NEVER let up, thereby giving him a chance to fight another day.

----- jim o\-S