5 Obsolete New York Objects That Used to Be Essential
Subway Tokens
Subway tokens seemed unstoppable. Why would anyone ever want to replace them with a flimsy, disposable piece of plastic? I remember when Metrocards were first introduced and I would still ask the toll booth clerks for tokens because they were what authentic New Yorkers carried. And then suddenly, tokens weren’t even accepted anymore. Those were dark days, matched only by the discontinuation of the 9 train a few years later. That was hard for me too. But, now, of course, who can even remember a good reason for wanting more loose change around? I mean, most people don’t even carry cash anymore, much less keep track of coins. The Metrocard just makes so much more sense. Although, take heed, Metrocard-lovers (there must be some out there, right? right???) because even the Metrocard’s day will come. Most modern transit systems allow passengers to use their debit or credit cards, thus eliminating the need for a distinct fare card. The future is wide open.