NewYorkFirst.com: New York Subway-Inspired Gifts

Token of Esteem.

More than two million people ride the 722 miles of the New York subway system each day, making it by far the most heavily traveled public transportation system in the United States. In the beginning, a nickel would take you to any destination in the system. That lasted from the subway's inception in 1904 until 1948, when fares doubled to a dime. When, in 1953, fares increased beyond the realm of a one-coin denomination to 15 cents, the city's transit token was born. After serving as a symbol of urban living for 50 years, the small disc with the letters "NYC" in the middle and the "Y" cut out was replaced with the MetroCard. But, just as the Metropolitan Transit Authority began removing the metallic dinosaurs from circulation, the venerable token was reborn as subway-inspired gifts.

A Trip Through Time.
More than two million people ride the 722 miles of the New York subway system each day, making it by far the most heavily traveled public transportation system in the United States. In the beginning, a nickel would take you to any destination in the system. That lasted from the subway's inception in 1904 until 1948, when fares doubled to a dime. When, in 1953, fares increased beyond the realm of a one-coin denomination to 15 cents, the city's transit token was born. After serving as a symbol of urban living for 50 years, the small disc with the letters "NYC" in the middle and the "Y" cut out was replaced with the MetroCard. But, just as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority began removing the metallic dinosaurs from circulation, the venerable token was reborn as subway-inspired, officially MTA licensed gifts.

New York Subway Token Watch.

Price: $59.

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Availability: SOLD OUT

Subway Swank.
Authentic New York subway tokens, mounted in sterling silver for the quintessential New Yorker, wherever he or she may be. The “Good for One Fare” tokens were last minted in 1980. The antique accessories are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and come in a handy subway-map-covered gift box.

Subway Token Cufflinks.

Price: $114.

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Miss Subway's Hostess Gift.
A map of the New York Subway Sustem has been digitally hand printed onto a set of 4 tumbled Botticino marble tiles. With a centuries-old heat-pressing technique, each image is embedded into the tile. Each tile has its own character, shade and texture, the whole charm of natural stone. Pieces assume a matte finish with pitting, veining and irregular, rounded edges as a result of processing. The set of four 4-inch-square decoratives are cork-backed for use as coasters. They are heat resistant and dishwasher safe, making them a perfect, house warming or hostess gift. These striking marble coasters come in a Gift Box Set of four.

Subway Map Marble Coasters.
(Set of 4)

Price: $48.

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Vinyl Underground.
Until now your shower curtain has been an "under-utilized blank canvas," but the view of the unique underworld of the New York City subway system brings a striking presence to the bathroom and adds a little something extra to your time in la toilette (not to mention a practical guide to the daily commute). Keeps the bathroom cleaner, and floors stay safe, dry, and mildew-free. (Extra heavyweight polished vinyl; metal grommets with reinforced holes).

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