Abstract: A gaming chip is provided that includes a rigid core element having an outer peripheral edge, and top and bottom surfaces. The core element is formed with at least one ventilating aperture extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The ventilating aperture relieves any vacuum formed between the chip and an adjacent chip, allowing the chip to be more easily handled. In another embodiment, a method for making a gaming chip is provided. The method includes molding a rigid disk element having an outer peripheral edge, and top and bottom surfaces. At least one ventilating aperture is molded into the disk that extends from the top surface to the bottom surface. The molded ventilating aperture relieves any vacuum formed between the chip and an adjacent chip, allowing the chip to be more easily handled.

Abstract: A gaming chip that includes a base ring that defines a central aperture, within which a unitary cup disposed. The cup has first and second recessed cavities therein. A transponder is disposed in one of the first and second cavities and an antenna is disposed in the other of the first and second cavities. The antenna is electrically coupled to the transponder and a cover is secured over the cup to maintain the transponder and the antenna within their respective cavities. A method for making a gaming chip is also provided. The method includes providing a ring that has a central aperture extending therethrough and locating a unitary cup having first and second recessed cavities within the central aperture of the ring. An outer shell is molded about the ring, so that the outer shell and the ring form at least a part of the outer surface of the gaming chip. The outer shell has a lip that extends at least partially over an outer edge of the cup to hold the cup within the ring.

Abstract: A gaming chip having an edge insert, and a gaming chip fabrication process, the edge insert having an opening for receiving molding compound. A gaming chip has a core element, such as a substantially flat ring or disc. A plastic edge insert, having a face with an opening therein, is positioned at the edge of the core element. Molding compound, of a color different that the plastic edge insert, is formed around the core element and within the opening of the plastic edge insert to thereby create a complex, interesting, or distinctive visual appearance at the edge of the gaming chip. Multiple embodiments for releasably orienting the edge insert on the core element, prior to forming molding compound about the core element, are provided. In a preferred embodiment, the gaming chip has multiple plastic edge inserts positioned at equally spaced intervals about the gaming chip.

Abstract: An improved gaming chip and its fabrication process is provided wherein a discoidal insert having at least one label generally centered thereon is placed within the central aperture of a ring. A molding compound is formed over the ring and an outer peripheral portion of the insert thereby creating a lip over the outer peripheral edge of the label to prevent its removal. An electronic pre-encoded transponder may be placed within the ring prior to molding. When stimulated, the transponder will transmit encoded gaming chip identification information.