Well not to reiterate, but
"Here's a really official response to your question:
"The figures may be used in standard tournament play." *Nod to Docix*

The tokens are considered to be official play pieces, identical to normal figures (albeit, somewhat flatter and easier to click..)"

Thats a direct quote from DrGandalf from the wizkids forum.
And no, I don't believe they are unique.