Description:

This collection features three collectible phone cards from GPT Card Technology, issued in the UK around 1995 to commemorate the "Smartcard '95" event held at Olympia, London. Presented in a sleek, multifunctional folder, these cards are designed to both protect and showcase the collection. Each card represents one of GPT’s three core technologies: magnetic, contact smart card, and contactless smart card. These are symbolized by three geometric shapes—the circle, triangle, and square—and distinguished by the primary colors green, red, and blue, respectively. The front of each card features a vibrant, futuristic design with dynamic light patterns and prominently displays the respective symbol, accompanied by acronyms: GIM on the green circle card, GIS on the red triangle card, and GIC on the blue square card. These acronyms likely denote specific card types or technologies.

On the reverse side, the cards include text identifying the event, GPT’s corporate details, and contact information for their Liverpool office, reflecting the company's intent to blend cutting-edge technology with promotional branding. The label "SMARTCARD '95," along with the dates February 14-16, 1995, and GPT Payphone Systems, positions these cards as commemorative or demonstrative items marking a significant milestone in telecommunications—specifically, the evolution of payment systems with smart card integration in Britain during that era.

The accompanying folder provides additional context, outlining three guiding principles of GPT Card Technology: the adoption of magnetic, contact smart, and contactless smart card systems; the use of three fundamental shapes and colors in design to symbolize these technologies; and a dedication to quality and service. It references collaborations with major industry players such as GEC (General Electric Company) and Siemens, highlighting the collaborative nature of this technological advancement. The black folder features subtle embossed geometric symbols and glossy prints of the cards displayed in a transparent holder, emphasizing a high-quality presentation aimed at collectors and industry professionals alike.

This GPT set offers a unique snapshot of mid-1990s telecom innovation in Great Britain, emphasizing the transition from magnetic stripe cards to smartcard technology for payphones. It is a significant collectible—especially in mint and sealed condition—as it documents an important period of technological progress when card-based payment systems evolved from magnetic stripe cards to advanced smart cards. The design and branding cleverly use visual symbols and color coding to reflect the sophistication and variety of card technologies developed under GPT, serving both as marketing tools and as artifacts celebrating the Smartcard '95 event.

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.