Mark Trester sold various casino memorabilia at the 33rd annual Casino Chip and Collectibles Show, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The event took place at South Point from May 27 to May 29, 2026, drawing thousands of attendees and around 100 vendors.
What happened
Retired truck driver Mark Trester took on a new role at the Casino Chip and Collectibles Show by selling pieces of his extensive collection for the first time. Trester’s interest in collecting casino memorabilia began after witnessing a casino chip from the Landmark sell for $90. He later explained, “I told myself that every time I played somewhere, I’d keep one chip. Then it morphed into this.”
Attendees browsed Trester’s table filled with gaming tokens and decks of cards, priced from $5 to hundreds of dollars. Some patches were sold for $15, while decorative ashtrays with casino logos went for around $7. “It’s wheeling and dealing time,” Trester told passersby, emphasizing the lively atmosphere.
Trester was accompanied by his son, Matthew Trester, who noted their differences: “My dad loves Las Vegas — he loves gambling — but he’s never worked at a casino.” They both enjoyed engaging with attendees, sharing stories with former casino workers and fans of the now-defunct properties.
Why it matters
As the casino memorabilia market continues to evolve, the participation of younger collectors becomes crucial for preserving this aspect of Las Vegas history. The Casino Collectibles Association, which boasts nearly 1,000 members, includes many former casino staff and executives who view their memorabilia as part of a collective heritage. President Barry Sherwood stated, “We’re trying to preserve that history — that’s the old culture.”
Maintaining interest among younger generations ensures that the unique collectibles, which face competition from current technology like ticket-in, ticket-out systems, remain valued. Sherwood emphasized, “We’re all going to die, and we need this to keep going.”
Background
On May 20, 2026, the Casino Collectibles Association announced plans for the three-day event intended to attract collectors and fans alike. The long-standing tradition of gathering for casino memorabilia shows has become a way to share stories and preserve a unique era of entertainment history.
The event brought attention to the need for awareness of the collectibles market while highlighting their cultural significance, especially as younger audiences show less interest in collecting traditional items.
What’s next
The Casino Collectibles Association plans to host more events throughout the year, encouraging participation from younger collectors while aiming to expand its membership base. The next significant show is scheduled for September 2026.
