A person who finished or died was said to have cashed in his chips.

VOA: special.2010.01.17

He will turn in his chips in exchange for money or cash.

VOA: special.2010.01.17

Chips are often used in card games.

VOA: special.2010.01.17

"He will also have to reassure the Poles and the Czechs who I think are feeling a little nervous as to whether they are deemed bargaining chips and might be traded away in some efforts with the Russians.

VOA: standard.2009.07.15