It sounds like the old timers are giving the newbie a hard time.

Because there are new chips doesn't mean that the old chips are not on the table or available at the cage. These days there are enough chip collectors and dealers that most "obsolete" chips are still plentiful since they have them in stock. After a few years they will increase in value as more new collectors come into the market. The laws vary from state to state as to what is done with obsolete chips. In Nevada they must publish a redemption notice before chips are declared "worthless". In AC, chips can always be cashed in.