...John, upon a more closer examination, it does look as if the center of the chip would be a paste on. I don't want to damage the chip by trying to peal it off but you may be correct after all.

Now I just took even a closer look, rubbed my fingernail across the edge and it does in fact seem like it is a paste on-job althought I can't confirm anything more with out damaging the chip.

You sure do know your chips. I never would have suspected this.