Beyond Platinum? The Billionaire's Black AMEX (with image)

I just read about travelling like a billionaire over in Free Money Finance. Apparently AMEX issues a black Centurion card with literally no limit and "...dedicated personal concierge as well as a travel agent, private-jet charter program, chauffeured limo service and international emergency health care. They can also get tickets to 'By Invitation Only' events, like seats onstage at a recent Rolling Stones concert, which cost $5,800 per pair."

Inflamed by curiousity I dug a little around the net and came upon an interesting article from Snopes. The cards are an example of an urban legend come to life. Rampant rumors of a mysterious black card caused AMEX to bust out with the real thing in 1999. It's $2,500 a year for the card and offered by invitation only. Can you imagine that bulk mail? "You've been Pre-Approved for the American Express Billionaires Card!"

I try not to get too upset by the fact that I will never own one of these or have a private jet. I am however, incensed that billionaires don't have to take off their shoes at airport security according to the original Yahoo article.