I have got a simple question about chip grading. Does a chip that is dirty affect the grading condition of the chip? For example if I have a obsolete chip that appears to be uncirculated or brand new, but has dirt or grime on the chip but everything else is fine can this chip be referred to as new? Or would it be Slightly used or average. I would think personally that it could be defined as at least slightly used or possibly even new because I have read just about everywhere that chips do not have to be cleaned as cleaning them will not increase their value. Also, that some collectors think dirt or grime as "history" on their chip. So if anyone could answer this that would be great.

Thanks,
Justin