Mike - The two strikes were both in play at the casino, the story you were told about one being made just for high rollers etc is just a story, the strike was in play in the strike machines for everybody to play for.
Sometimes folks make up a good story to sell a common strike for may to much. You can check the Silver Strikers web site and view all strikes that have been issued and you will also see where if they are a short run, error etc. that is noted.
As far as the makings on the bottom you will have to ask somebody who can read Chinese.
Walt