New York City Subway Tokens

The NYC Subway System opened in 1904. At first the fare was 5 cents and later 10 cents. In 1953 the fare went to 15 cents and the first token came out. For the next 50 years the subway token was a way of life for New Yorkers. Tokens were changed from time to time, due to fare increases as well as technology making counterfeiting easier. During the 75th Anniversary of the NYC Subway System a special token was made during 1979 - 1980. In 2003 the token finally got replaced by the MetroCard. This collection shows all the NYC subway tokens used between 1953 and 2003, including the limited edition 1979 75th Anniversary token. Also shown are several generations of NYC subway cars. NYC over the years have retained examples of almost every type of subway car ever used in the city over the 112 year history of the system. They have been lovingly preserved and restored. NYCTA operates these old trains several times a year for special occasions. On those days it is possible to literally go back in time. The train photos that I have included were all taken in one day in 2015 out at Coney Island. 4 vintage trainsets were brought out to celebrate 100 years of subway service to the place that at one time was America's Playground.