Description:

This collectible phone card features the prominent branding of "Boardwatch Magazine," a publication dedicated to electronic bulletin boards and the early internet. The title "Boardwatch" is boldly displayed across the top in a metallic-style font that exudes technological sophistication. Just below, the word "MAGAZINE" is highlighted within a blue rectangular box, set against a black background that subtly frames the entire card. A tagline beneath reads, “Guide to Electronic Bulletin Boards and The Internet,” clarifying the magazine’s niche and target audience. This emphasizes its role as an informational resource during the early days of online communication.

Dominating the left side of the card is a striking image of Earth viewed from space. This visual symbolizes the global reach of Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) and early internet networks that Boardwatch Magazine extensively covered. The depiction showcases swirling clouds and landmasses in vibrant blues, whites, and browns, creating a lively, almost three-dimensional effect. The cosmic blackness of space sharply contrasts with the brightness of the Earth, reinforcing the futuristic and innovative spirit associated with both the magazine and the technology it promotes.

On the right side, essential contact details for subscriptions and BBS services are neatly organized in blue text. Included are a toll-free subscription number (800-933-6038), a local BBS dial-up number ((303) 973-4222), a telnet URL (boardwatch.com), and a fax number ((303) 973-3731). A voice contact number matching the subscription line is also provided. These details highlight the card’s functional purpose in facilitating connectivity during a pre-broadband era, when users relied heavily on phone lines and modems.

At the bottom right in smaller print, the card notes its commemorative purpose: “ONE BBSCON Commemorative Phone Card August 17-21, 1994.” This indicates it was a limited edition issued for the BBSCON conference, celebrating a gathering of BBS enthusiasts and professionals. The card’s value is marked at $3, making it both a collectible item and a practical tool for accessing BBS networks at the time. Overall, this phone card captures a moment in technological history, blending utility with collectible appeal.

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The back side of the phone card is simpler in design but rich in functional detail. It features a primarily white background with dark text, structured to guide users on how to effectively utilize the card. The phrase “MEMORY CARD” appears near the top left, indicating the card’s capability to store certain data—an advanced feature for its era.

Below, clear, step-by-step instructions explain how to use the card for making telephone calls. It details that the card can be used at any payphone or telephone equipped with the necessary reader, emphasizing its versatility. Users are instructed to insert the card into the phone, listen for approval or dialing tones, then dial the desired number. Specific guidance is provided for local and long-distance calls, ensuring that users unfamiliar with the technology can navigate the process successfully.

Additional information on the back includes identifiers such as the card’s serial number and technical specifications, as well as a magnetic strip along the top edge used for storing the prepaid calling value. Safety and usage warnings may be included, along with disclaimers regarding the card’s validity and terms of use. There is also space allocated for official stamps or markings to authenticate the card as a legitimate prepaid phone card.

Together, the front and back of this collectible phone card offer a snapshot of early digital connectivity culture through the lens of Boardwatch Magazine. They also provide practical means to engage with the technology of the early 1990s, marking a fascinating intersection of communication, technology, and community.

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.