...one does not recoup the cost of pursuing. Boating, fishing, hunting, bowling, season ticket holders for major league sports are just a few that come to mind. I have unused postage stamps going back to the early 50's that I am using for postage on my envelopes today, including plate blocks. Mint sets purchased from the U.S. Mint during the 1960's sell for less than what i paid for them. Enjoy your hobby. If several chips you have purchased appreciate in value over the course of your collecting years, or if you are able to cash them in at the casino cages for face value ... that's a good plus for the years of enjoyment you have had collecting them. Nobody wants my old bowling score sheets, or used ticket stubs, or fishing gear.