Description:

This collectible $5 Telecard from the Telecard World Expo, held in September 1994 at New York City’s Jacob Javits Convention Center, is a striking blend of Americana, historical transportation, and artistic craftsmanship. The card prominently showcases a vintage steam locomotive chugging along a wooden railroad trestle, rendered with intricate detail. The engine’s classic brass fittings and large red-spoked wheels evoke the industrial charm of the late 19th century. This steam train symbolizes the vital "Rails To Tidewater" route, reflecting the American railroad history that fueled economic growth by linking coastal ports with inland regions and capturing the essence of rail transportation during that era.

Behind the locomotive, the image transitions into a ghostly yet majestic tall ship anchored in New York Harbor, illustrating the harmonious coexistence of rail and maritime transportation that shaped America’s commercial and cultural expansion. The ship’s detailed masts, rigging, and sails highlight the significance of nautical travel and trade along the eastern seaboard. Together, the train and ship create a compelling narrative of America’s transportation heritage. The wooden trestle beneath the locomotive is finely depicted, showcasing the classic wooden beams and supports typical of coastal railroad construction, enhancing the card’s vintage artistic appeal.

The front of the telecard features essential event details in gold lettering, emphasizing its role as a promotional collectible from Telecard World ’94. The text specifies the conference and exposition dates—September 28 to October 12—and identifies the renowned Jacob Javits Convention Center as the venue. This Expo was a landmark event, highlighting not only the practical use of telecards for communication but also their value as collectible art. The combination of Americana motifs—steam trains, tall ships, and wooden railroad infrastructure—reflects a deep appreciation for historical innovation and craftsmanship. The card represents a unique fusion of technology, artistry, and cultural celebration through the lens of telecard memorabilia.

The artwork, credited to James R. Williamson, masterfully captures evocative themes of trains, ships, and Americana, portraying a pivotal moment in history when transportation technology was rapidly evolving and uniting the nation. Williamson’s style, blending realistic detail with soft, watercolor-like shading, brings this historic scene to life, appealing to collectors of telecards, railroad memorabilia, and maritime art alike.

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.