While baseball stars and hockey champs have traditionally dominated the trading card market, a new player has entered the game: the regional transit vehicles of Metro Vancouver.
Featured in the set of five cards are the Mark I and Mark V SkyTrain cars, the West Coast Express, the Burrard Chinook SeaBus, and the Nova LFS CNG bus.
The Mark I (only 15 were printed) and West Coast Express (only 100) are particularly rare, according to a press release from TransLink.
"These new TransLink trading cards are a nod to classic trading card culture,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn in a press release. “They’re a fun way to spark conversations about transit, connect with other riders, and encourage more people to hop on board."
Non-sports trading cards have existed for decades. Some may recall everything from Star Trek to rock band cards in the early '90s. More recently, there have been other entries, and attempted entries into the market, like Canada's Choice politician cards.
The first TransLink cards were handed out on Friday, Aug. 8, to a huge lineup of people, but more are being given out this summer. Collectors can find them at the PNE Fair's TransLink Zone and Car Free Days.
There will also be giveaways from some frontline staff, on social media, and through the TransLink newsletter.
