I believe that the whole Pre-Flag thing is blown out of proportion. I personally have almost 2 gross of Pre Flag blue chalk that I've had for almost 20 years. I keep a few pieces in my bag for when I go to a pool room and get a set of balls, and the 1 or 2 pieces of chalk in the tray are drilled about halfway through or more from previous players who do not know how to properly chalk a cue tip. When this happens, I simply take out 2 cubes of my own (Pre Flag) and use them. If the chalk in the tray is in good shape, then I use it instead of my own. I honestly have never noticed a difference in how they play.
The wrapper was changed due to events of 9/11 I'm sure.
I think people have a problem because some sell the Pre-flag at premium prices, but I don't really think this is any different than a Balabushka, an antique pool table, an antique car, or anything else that has gained in value, or cost, over time. It's nostalgia if nothing else, and some people don't mind paying for that. It's not worth argument surely,,,,obviously some don't think it warrants a premium price, but since some will pay it then it obviously is. I'm authorized to sell and re-tip Kamui Products,,,,,,,there is another argument that comes up all the time,,,,,but the fact is the ones who like the product will pay for it and the others can simply play their own favorites.
Arguments and dis-agreements on this type thing are never resolved, yet always unnecessary.