Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic vintage $5 casino chip from the iconic Riviera Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. Featuring the classic 'Small Crown' compression mold around the rim and a paper inlay label, this chip captures the golden era of mid-century Rat Pack Las Vegas.
Story
In 1955, the Riviera opened as the first high-rise resort on the Strip, ushering in modern Las Vegas. Liberace cut the ribbon, and Frank Sinatra graced its stages. This $5 chip passed through countess hands under the neon glow.
Maker / Origin
Major gaming supply manufacturers like Christy & Jones and the Burt Company pressed these chips using proprietary clay composition formulas. The distinctive small crown mold embossed around the rim acted as both a decorative detail and a anti-counterfeiting measure for the casino floor.
Condition & Value
Shows noticeable surface soil, edge wear, and color softening consistent with heavy casino floor play. The inlay remains fully intact and legible. The heavy wear reduces value compared to uncirculated examples. Vintage obsolete casino chips from closed Las Vegas casinos have a active collector market (Chip Guide / CCA).
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.