Description:
This collectible phone card, known as the Schlumberger Issue Cash Card from July 1996 (F90N), exemplifies an early stored value card (SVC) or smart card used in telecommunications. Measuring approximately the size of a standard credit card, it features an embedded chip on the upper left side—characteristic of early chip cards designed to store monetary value for making phone calls. The front prominently displays the name "Schlumberger" alongside "RACOM," indicating the manufacturer or distributor. The stamped date "3-7-1996" situates this card in the mid-1990s, capturing a pivotal moment in telecommunication history and reflecting the transition from magnetic stripe cards to smart card technology with integrated circuits.
Visually, the card is dominated by an artistic depiction of coins and currency, emphasizing its role as a stored value card. Detailed illustrations of coins, notably denominations of 10 and 5 units, are scattered across the surface, symbolizing money and reinforcing its function as a cash card for phone usage. Behind these coins, subtle layers of abstract shapes and muted photographic imagery suggest the presence of a person or historical figure, adding depth and cultural context to the design. Hebrew text, including the phrase "אדם וולם," along with other characters, firmly situates the card within an Israeli context, highlighting its regional specificity.
On the reverse side, the design continues the theme of currency and payment. Prominent features include digital and graphic treatments of Hebrew characters and additional coin imagery, blending monetary symbolism with telecommunication branding. The mention of "Keshetcard" likely refers to the service provider or the network associated with this stored value card. The color palette, dominated by shades of gold and yellow, reinforces themes of money and value. Layered images create a modern and sophisticated appearance for its era. Additional alphanumeric serial numbers, such as "131862," suggest uniqueness and facilitate security, traceability, and tracking.
As a collectible, the Schlumberger Issue Cash Card from July 1996 holds significant historical and technological value. It represents a key phase in the evolution of stored value and chip card technology, serving not only as a functional piece of telecommunication infrastructure but also as an artifact that reflects the intersection of innovation, culture, and regional identity during a transformative period in electronic payment systems.
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.
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