Commemorative Trump Transit Cards Released by DC Metro Ahead of Inauguration
As Americans flock to the nation’s capital for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has released a special public transportation card to honor the event.
The “Commemorative Inauguration SmarTrip Card” is a rechargeable farecard that can hold up to $300 in stored value for the city’s public transportation, according to WMATA’s website.
A Symbol of a New Era
This transit card serves as more than just a simple farecard; it embodies a moment in American history. Featuring a striking image of Trump against a vibrant red background, the card boldly displays the number “47,” representing his role as the 45th and 47th President of the United States. The inscription captures a pivotal event: “The Inauguration of Donald J. Trump 45th and 47th President of the United States.” It’s a visual reminder of both the hope and skepticism surrounding this significant political transition.
Availability and Nostalgia
Participating Metro stations throughout the D.C. metropolitan area are selling these cards while supplies last. Locations such as Ashburn, Forest Glen, Franconia-Springfield, and Washington Dulles International Airport are among the venues for these unique farecards. However, the WMATA has reported that sales are sold out at the Metro Center station, highlighting both the demand and the excitement that surrounds this occasion.
Reflecting back to 2017, WMATA offered a generic inauguration card adorned with Trump’s face. This year, the updated design sparks a wave of nostalgia and has already caught the attention of collectors. Some eager travelers have resold these commemorative cards online, with listings on platforms like eBay showing prices ranging from $20 to a staggering $450. One seller even described it as “a valuable addition to any collection,” emphasizing its appeal to political memorabilia enthusiasts.
The Broader Significance of Political Memorabilia
This card is more than a transportation tool; it represents a fleeting moment in time, a tangible connection to the political landscape. Other Trump-related cards have surfaced online, with prices reaching upwards of $150 and even $300. Interestingly, Barack Obama Metro cards from the 2009 inauguration are being auctioned between $500 and $1,000, a testament to the enduring allure of political history.
For those planning to attend the inauguration, local tips are invaluable. “Consider a further destination that is near a Metro station, even as far out as Vienna, Virginia,” advises Petersen. Trains will operate, but schedules may shift due to special events, adding an element of unpredictability to this monumental occasion.
In essence, the commemorative Trump transit card serves as a bridge between the present and the past, evoking a sense of shared experience among those who collect these pieces of history. Who knows what future significance this card may hold as the political narrative continues to unfold?
