Description:

This distinctive collection of collectible prepaid phone cards features the "Quarter Bears™," a charming blend of Americana, coin collecting, and plush toys from the year 2000. Each card showcases a plush bear representing a specific U.S. state, paired with its corresponding commemorative quarter from the late 18th century—an era marking the state's founding or significant historical milestones. The bears are color-coded to symbolize each state, with detailed embroidery on their chests indicating the state name and year (ranging from Delaware 1787 to New York 1788), reflecting the pioneering spirit of early America. Additionally, each bear bears two unique badges on their feet: one displaying the American flag and the other featuring an emblem or symbol specific to the state—mirroring the design elements of the associated quarter.

The cards themselves are richly detailed, set against bold, solid-colored backgrounds tailored to each state, which enhances the visibility of the bears and coins. For example, Delaware's card features a deep blue background, while New Jersey's is striking lime green, creating a vibrant and visually engaging collection. Prominently displayed on each card is the quarter image, accompanied by the AT&T logo and information about the 5-minute prepaid phone card feature—highlighting the practical use of these collectibles beyond their nostalgic or aesthetic appeal. The bears are depicted facing forward and backward, allowing collectors to appreciate the full embroidery of their badges and the intricate coin designs that inspired them.

What makes this collection especially noteworthy is its unique fusion of numismatics and plush toy appeal, creating a nostalgic cross-market collectible. The bears are plush bean bag toys crafted by Timeless Toys, Inc., each meticulously designed to reflect the theme, dates, and symbols of the respective state quarter—such as Georgia’s peach emblem or Maryland’s intricate state flag pattern. The inclusion of years from 1787 to 1788 alongside 2000 symbolizes the historical and modern convergence, connecting the states’ founding dates with the years the quarters were issued. The tactile quality of the plush bears contrasts with the shiny, flat coin images, offering a tangible link to American history and currency culture.

Overall, this set is a compelling collector’s item that creatively combines the nostalgia of early U.S. statehood, the excitement of the 50 State Quarters coin collecting boom, and the whimsical charm of stuffed animals. It appeals to numismatists, toy collectors, and Americana enthusiasts alike. The promotional aspect of these AT&T prepaid phone cards adds an extra layer of historical context, rooted in the early 2000s when prepaid calling cards were a popular way to manage phone costs before the rise of cell phones. For those interested in Americana collectibles or the unique intersection of coins, bears, and flags, this set of the first 11 Quarter Bears stands as a distinctive symbol of American cultural heritage.

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.