Telephone Card: Russian

This is a Russian payphone card issued to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Russian Navy (1696-1996).

Details of the Card:

Theme: Celebrates 300 years of the Russian Navy (Военно-Морской Флот России), which was officially founded in 1696 under Peter the Great.

Design: Features a historical illustration of a naval officer (possibly inspired by Peter the Great himself) using a spyglass, with sailing ships in the background.

Denomination: 50 units, which likely indicates the amount of call credit available when the card was in use.

Language: The text is in Russian and English:

“300 лет Российскому Флоту” = “300 Years of the Russian Navy”

“ТАКСОФОННАЯ КАРТА” = “Payphone Card”

Technology: The card has a chip embedded, which was commonly used in payphone cards during the 1990s.

Historical Context:

This card was likely issued in 1996, marking the tricentennial of the founding of the Russian Navy. The Navy was officially established by Tsar Peter the Great as part of his extensive military reforms to modernize Russia. The illustration on the card reflects this era, showing an 18th-century naval officer in a traditional European-style uniform.

Collectible Value:

Vintage Status: Since payphones are now mostly obsolete, these cards have become collectible items.

Russian Navy Theme: Items related to Russian military history, especially from significant anniversaries, are popular among collectors.

Rarity: The value depends on the condition and demand among collectors. If unused and in good condition, it could be valuable.