Oyster cards honor Diamond Jubilee, Summer Olympics

London has the distinction of being the only city in the world that can claim an important milestone of its monarchy and the Summer Olympic Games in the same year. In commemoration of the dual landmark events, the city's mass transit authority, the Transport for London (TfL), is issuing commemorative prepaid Oyster transit cards.

The 60-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II was celebrated with a limited edition Oyster card that features an official portrait of the Queen. The cards were available for purchase in mid-May from London Underground ticket offices, TfL Travel Information Centers and ticketing kiosks. The Diamond Jubilee was officially celebrated June 2 thought June 5, with celebrations taking place throughout the U.K., including a flotilla of 1,000 boats down the Thames in London.

Additionally, the TfL said it would release in mid-June 2012 an Oyster card that celebrates the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games that begin in late July. "The images on the card nod to sporting activities, the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant, along with the Big Jubilee Lunch and the spirit of street parties and community that will make London a fantastic place to be this summer," said the TfL.

The Green Sheet Inc. is now a proud affiliate of Bankcard Life, a premier community that provides industry-leading training and resources for payment professionals. Click here for more information.

Notice to readers: These are archived articles. Contact names or information may be out of date. We regret any inconvenience.