The word's most exclusive credit cards

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Coutts & Co. World Card

For roughly $700 annually (waived if more than $100,000 is charged in one year), the Coutts card gives customers the chance to live like a queen. In fact, Queen Elizabeth II is a Coutts client. The concierge and assistance center is a major perk, offering everything from help chartering a yacht at the last minute to hiring a governess.

 

 

American Express Centurion

The fee is $2,500 annually and it's by invitation only. But, what's cooler than holding the card James Bond used in Casino Royale to secure a last minute room at an exclusive Bahamas resort?

 

 

Citibank Ultima

Citi has been issuing this card in the Middle East and emerging economies in Asia, including India. For about $1,200 (converted from the 50,000 Indian rupees annual fee) the card offers exclusive access to private islands and an array of elite concierge and travel assistance services.

 

 

Smith Barney Chairman's Card

For $400 annually, card holders can charter a private jet, get medical assistance when traveling and an assortment of other travel and personal services rewards, including a special reservation desk that will arrange your dinner meeting at exclusive restaurants in New York and Los Angeles.

 

 

Merrill +

Merrill offers this even to non-customers of its private client division, and depending on how much someone spends on the card, there may not be an annual fee. Perks include an array of travel, entertainment and hotel breaks, plus access to luxury spas, theatre tickets and other events.

 

Bank Of America Accolades

In addition to the travel and other services, Bank of America offers a charitable match program, in which it will match any donation up to $2,500 each year using the card, good for budding philanthropists. The card is offered to the bank's private banking and "mass affluent" customers, meaning card holders need have just $100,000 of investable assets to get a hold of one.

 

Stratus Rewards Visa

Known as the "White Card," this Visa is also by invitation only and offers cardholders points that can be redeemed for flights on private jets. It also offers concierge services like Abercrombie & Kent's Marco Polo Club and access to premium "awards-show-style" gift bags and other trendy products.

 

Source: Forbes

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Where are the exclusive cards used in Africa?