NYCT to phase out tokens

The New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) will cease token sales on April 13 and completely phase out the currency on May 4. Beginning last Sunday, token sales for subway and bus riders are limited to two per person. Despite the historical value of the tokens, about 85% of the MTA's 7 million bus and subway riders pay for service using the MetroCard. Only 8% use tokens. After May 4, turnstiles will no longer accept tokens. Fareboxes on buses will continue to take them until Dec. 31, but riders will have to add 50 cents to complete their fare to make-up the increase in one-way transit fares. The tokens went through five decades of usage for commuters and six makeovers.