5-6 years ago, it was quite common to receive tips for a helpful post. I haven't gotten one in probably over a year, so I'd say it is more rare these days.
Back in the days you mentioned people were really into discussing things and helping out each other with a genuine state of mind. Good old days as some like to say.
If I browse through very old threads, a huge difference (compared to what is the case today) in posting style and quality becomes obviously visible.
Nowadays the majority of the people get their main posting motive from the financial benefit that is tied to their posts (referring to sig campaign participants).
People aren't here anymore just to learn something and pass through their knowledge. Today it's the signature campaigns that dictate this forum.
People just look at thread titles and start writing without even looking at what OP or others are stating. Helpful posts are barely getting any attention this way.