The reason the item/ product becomes obsolete is because the market and/or "issuing entity" decides the item no longer represents the same value (to the market) or worth as it had when originally offered. Technology may dictate this progression - as well as the providers of products and services and the market that uses them. 8 track players do not have the same "value" to manufacturers as CD players - regardless of how the "collector" feels. "Items" become obsolete when something replaces it and the older products are no longer "as valuable" (and this can mean valuable in the service it provides) as it's replacement. (gas lights v. electric lights)

In some cases - "obsolete" applies when the item can not meet it's intended purpose (like a freeway) or "anticipated purpose" (a computer)

But in the case where an item represents MONEY or a debt/ financial obligation that is honored by the issuing party (like US currency or casino chips) - as long as the entity that issued it - recognizes the debt at the same value or worth as intended/ issued - it is NOT obsolete.

QUESTION: HAS ANYONE ASKED THE CASINOS when THEY consider a chip/ token to be "obsolete"? Just curious...