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Washington Shopping Plate Credit Card

Object Details

Description
The Washington Shopping Plate was a credit card issued to shoppers in Washington, D.C., that they could use to make purchases at local department stores. The first cards were issued in October 1950 and were good at Hecht’s, Jelleff’s, Kann’s, Lansburgh’s, Raleigh's, and Garfinkel's. It was first issued as an embossed metal plate before becoming the blue plastic card seen here. In 1974 a large D.C. retailer began accepting a national credit card (American Express), which signaled the end of the Washington Shopping Plate.
Data Source
National Museum of American History
maker
unknown
date made
n.d.
Credit Line
E. Clain-Stefanelli
Physical Description
plastic (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 5.5 cm x 8.5 cm x .2 cm; 2 5/32 in x 3 11/32 in x 3/32 in
Object Name
credit card

Featured In

  • Explore America: Washington, D.C.
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