I think in many cases the subject of the chip itself (Hot Ladies, Rock Bands, Popular events etc) tend to determine the popularity of the chip as much as mintage. Also, many times an LE is made for an event attended by "non-collectors" who still take a chip as a souvenir, and this causes a shortage for collectors, and of course the price rises....I believe one of last year's LV WSOP chips, and also the Palm's ROUNDERS chip are examples of this, and Hooter's lately.