Ripped In Half Credit Card Brings Staggering Price

A paperboard American Express credit card, that was torn completely in half and then sent to a professional restorator to be glued back together, has sold for a mind-boggling US$350.00! The card was ripped in half just left of the center.

Part of a bundle of cards

The card was one of 39 credit cards and two metal charge plates that sold in a group for US$1,525.00. 

The card’s actual selling price was US$375.00, but the new owner received a discount for buying so many cards in one transaction. He figures his actual cost for the card at US$350.00.

The card’s new owner was very pleased to get it. He said, “I’ve at least got one now.”

Highly sought-after by collectors

Paperboard American Express cards are the first credit cards American Express issued. Even though 500,000 of them were originally printed, they’re still highly prized and sought after by credit card collectors. 

These first American Express cards were issued starting October 1, 1958 and all carried a printed expiration of April 30, 1959.

The US$350.00 American Express card is believed to be in Very Nice condition, as far as wear is concerned. The restoration work is said to be very nicely done; it’s hardly noticeable except in a few areas where some glue is visible upon close examination. 

The card’s colors are said to be sharp and the credit card is clean and fresh even though its protective plastic case issue is missing.

Desirable credit cards and their features

Other noteworthy credit cards that sold in the transaction were:

1. A paperboard “The Texas Company” card that still had its three coupons attached. The card is dated May, June, July, August 1941. The card is Very Nice and sold for US$165.00.
2. An American Express “Charter Member” Green Card, 10/83, sold in Mint condition for US$40.00.
3. A Gold American Express card which says “The Executive Money Card” on three lines to the right sold for US$90.00.  The card carries an expiration of 8/72 and is said to be in Nice to Very Nice condition. There is no discernable code date on the card’s back since it has a large sticker covering where it should be located. The card’s owner doesn’t want to take a chance by raising the sticker of the issue just to find a code.

Copyright Greg Tunks, 1991