Description:

This collectible phone card from Brazil features a striking image of the Temple of Heaven, located in Peking (now Beijing), China. The front showcases the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, distinguished by its round, multi-tiered, gilded roof resting on a white marble base. The scene is illuminated by rich sunlight under a clear blue sky, highlighting the temple’s intricate red walls and ornate decorations. Prominently displayed on the right side in red Chinese characters is the word "China," adding an authentic cultural touch. The top left corner features the number "20" in bright red, indicating the card’s unit value. At the bottom, the label “CARTÃO TELEFÔNICO” appears alongside the “TELEBRÁS” logo and name, signifying the Brazilian telecommunications authority that produced the card in 1994.

The reverse side adopts a straightforward, utilitarian design, primarily in plain white, serving as an informative label. The top right corner again displays "20 UNIDADES" (units), referring to the card’s remaining balance for phone calls. Just below, bilingual captions describe the front photograph: in Portuguese, "Foto: Templo do Céu, Pequim," and in English, "Photo: Temple of Heaven, Peking," ensuring accessibility for both Brazilian and international users and reflecting a global interest in Chinese heritage. Along the lower third of the reverse face, there is a credit to “TECNOLOGIA TELEBRÁS” (Telebras Technology), reaffirming the technological entity responsible for the card’s manufacture.

This card exemplifies the classic design of 1990s Brazilian phone cards. Slightly curved for ease of handling, these cards were a common means of communication before the widespread adoption of mobile phones. Its design offers cultural and historical education by showcasing a globally recognized site—the Temple of Heaven—renowned for its Ming Dynasty architecture and spiritual significance. Featuring this monument on a Brazilian phone card highlights the era’s multicultural interests, linking Brazil with distant China through technology and collectible art.

Overall, this 20-unit Telebras card served not only a practical purpose but also provided a small window into global culture for its users. Its photographic clarity and cultural symbols blend artistry with technology. Preserving this card is important as a memorabilia of international appreciation and Brazil’s telecommunications history during the mid-1990s. It remains a tangible connection between two vastly different countries, preserved through this elegant and functional keepsake.

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.