Archive for April 16th, 2008

The most exclusive credit card in the world is the American Express Centurion card, otherwise known as the “Amex Black Card,” which is known for its elitist standing of mythical proportions. (Many think you can charge a private jet onto an American Express Black Card.) It is reserved for the supremely rich, and just owning the card creates automatic celebrity status.

Known for its legendary perks, such as instant access to VIP places, first class everything, and a slew of over-the-top bonus services (like private concierge assistance and personal shoppers), the Amex Centurion promises royal status to all those who own one. As Britney Spears hands the card over to pay for rehab, and Donald Trump uses it to buy bride after bride, the rest of us sit and ask ourselves: how can we get special treatment, but without the top-tier income?

In this article, we review the next best thing: three exclusive credit cards that provide comparable services, but don’t require spending $250,000 a year, like the Amex Black. So go on, try these on for size; you can always return ‘em.

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