Description:

This set of collectible phone cards from the Intele-Card News Expo '98, held May 27–29, 1998, in Miami Beach, Florida, beautifully showcases floral artistry within the realm of telecom collectibles. Each card is an oval-shaped mini-jumbo, approximately 5 inches by 3¾ inches, designed and printed by the Continental Plastic Card Company, with services provided by Cable & Wireless Inc. The cards feature die-cut edges and vibrant flower illustrations, evoking an artistic, almost fantastical feel that bridges fine botanical art and the nostalgic charm of phone card collectibles.

The three cards in the set each depict a distinct flower rendered in rich, bold colors against a deep black background. The first showcases a delicate orchid in shades of soft lavender and white, surrounded by green leaves, highlighting its exotic elegance. The second features a striking pink hibiscus, known for its large petals, with subtle color gradation that adds depth and texture. The third presents a vibrant blue flower—perhaps a creative interpretation of a common garden bloom—with intricate petal details accentuated by darker outlines and a central cluster of yellow stamens. Ivy leaves border each card, creating a cohesive natural frame, while the perimeter bears event details, making these both functional and commemorative keepsakes.

On the reverse side, the cards provide practical information for prepaid phone service users, including toll-free dialing instructions and customer service numbers for Cable & Wireless, emphasizing their utilitarian purpose beyond their artistic appeal. Additionally, a note explains that Florida’s name—coined by Ponce de León—means "abounding in flowers," directly tying the floral theme to the event’s locale and reinforcing the cards’ thematic continuity. Each card is individually numbered from a limited edition run of 100, enhancing their collectible value through exclusivity.

Overall, these Intele-Card News Expo cards blend floral beauty with practical telecommunications use, embodying a unique niche in collectible art. They exemplify how phone cards evolved into artistic objects and memorabilia, especially during a period when such cards were widely used and traded. The thoughtful design—featuring die-cut ovals, detailed floral motifs of orchids, hibiscus, and vivid blue flowers, along with decorative borders—makes this set a standout within Telecard Events collections and a testament to the creative intersection of technology, nature, and collectible culture in the late 1990s.

Since we have the world's largest inventory of USA phonecards for collectors, you will not necessarily receive the identical serial/batch/PIN number that we have scanned/pictured.