This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on July 16, 2025 by Mani Karthik
After extensive research into the world’s most exclusive credit card and conversations with current cardholders, here’s the definitive guide to the Centurion Card from American Express – a piece of anodized titanium that opens doors money alone cannot.
Welcome to the Most Exclusive Club 🏛️
Official Name: Centurion® Card from American Express
Colloquial Name: The Black Card
Material: Anodized titanium, laser-engraved
Availability: Invitation-only
Global Cardholders: Approximately 100,000 worldwide
US Cardholders: Estimated 20,000
First Year Cost: $15,000 ($10,000 initiation + $5,000 annual fee)
Annual Cost: $5,000
The Exclusivity Factor:
The Centurion Card from American Express, better known as the Amex Black Card, is the most prestigious and exclusive card around, and it’s reportedly a great asset for those fortunate enough to qualify for an invitation.
This isn’t just a credit card; it’s a statement.
When American Express tells NerdWallet that it is their long-standing policy not to share details about Centurion Card membership, you know you’re dealing with something special.
The Price of Prestige: What It Costs 💰
Fee Structure:
- Initiation Fee: $10,000 (one-time)
- Annual Fee: $5,000
- First Year Total: $15,000
- Supplementary Cards: One free titanium Centurion card + four additional supplementary cards
- Additional Titanium Cards: £1,700 each per year (UK pricing as reference)
No Pre-Set Spending Limit:
The Centurion Card is minted out of anodized titanium, laser-engraved, and accented with stainless steel. The card reports to credit bureaus and does not maintain a pre-set credit limit.
Real-World Context:
The 2020 Census Household Income Report found the median American household income is $67,521 per year, which makes the Centurion Card’s six-figure minimum spending requirement well out of reach for most people.
The Secret Formula: How to Get Invited 🗝️
The Invitation Process:
Since its introduction, the Centurion card has only been issued to clients invited by American Express to apply for it. However, in late 2021, you can now request consideration:
How to Request an Invite:
- Go to the Centurion website
- Click “Interested in Centurion® Membership? Click Here”
- Enter your name and current Amex card details
- Submit and wait (no guarantee of invitation)
Rumored Requirements:
Reports on the internet range from requiring $250,000 to over a million dollars of annual spending.
AmEx has not confirmed any specific spending requirements, and there’s no known threshold at which Platinum cardmembers receive an invitation.
Generally Accepted Criteria:
- Existing Amex History: Minimum 1 year, preferably with Platinum Card
- Annual Spending: $250,000-$500,000 across all Amex cards
- Income Level: Reportedly at least $1 million annually
- Credit Score: Excellent (800+)
- Net Worth: High net worth individual status
- Spending Type: Personal luxury purchases (business expenses don’t count as much)
The Reality Check:
To qualify, prospective cardholders typically need to spend between $500,000 and $1 million annually to demonstrate that they have the financial capacity and reliability required for the Centurion Card by default.
The Crown Jewel: Centurion Concierge👤
The Gold Standard of Personal Service:
One of the most famous benefits that the Centurion card offers is the Centurion concierge, which is essentially a personal concierge you can leverage for numerous tasks.
What Makes It Special:
- Dedicated Personal Concierge: Request the same individual each time
- 24/7 Availability: Available around the clock globally
- “Anything Legal” Philosophy: Concierges will attempt virtually any legal request
- Elevated Service Level: Introduction as “American Express Centurion Concierge” opens doors
Real-World Concierge Examples:
Based on verified reports and insider accounts:
Common Requests:
- Securing impossible restaurant reservations
- Last-minute sold-out event tickets
- Personal shopping experiences at luxury retailers
- Travel planning and emergency assistance
- Gift sourcing and delivery anywhere in the world
Extraordinary Requests: The website lists unverified descriptions of cardholder requests, such as dispatching a motorcycle rider to the shores of the Dead Sea to retrieve a handful of sand and couriering it back to London for a child’s school project.
Business Applications:
- Private jet arrangements
- Emergency medical care in remote locations
- Helicopter transportation
- Bentley purchases facilitated
- $170 million art auction purchases (actual recorded transaction)
Concierge Capabilities:
From securing sold-out holiday gifts to orchestrating emergency evacuations during natural disasters or coordinating essential medical assistance, our concierge team consistently delivers remarkable service.
Travel Like Royalty: Unmatched Travel Benefits ✈️
Airport Lounge Access:
Centurion Card members, like Platinum Card members, get complimentary access to the American Express Centurion Lounges at several US airports.
They also get no pre-set credit limit, access to Priority Pass lounges around the world, plus additional lounge privileges based on the country their card is registered in.
Exclusive Centurion Lounge Perks:
- Reserved Areas: At busy times, Centurion members have access to areas reserved for them
- Exclusive Drinks: Champagne option of Veuve Clicquot and single malt scotch by Balvenie
- Guest Access: Can bring two guests or immediate family members
- No Guest Fees: Unlike recent Platinum card changes
Elite Status Benefits:
American Express offers Centurion Card members elite-tier status in several partner loyalty programs, including:
Airlines:
- Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion: Unlimited complimentary upgrades, Choice Benefits, waived fees
Hotels:
- Hilton Honors Diamond Status: Room upgrades, lounge access, 100% points bonus
- Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status: Room upgrades, late checkout, 25% points bonus
- IHG Rewards Club Platinum Elite Status: No blackout dates, 60% points bonus
Car Rentals:
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle: Guaranteed upgrades
- Sixt Advantage Circle Diamond: VIP service and lounge access
Arrival Services:
When you travel in business or first class on international flights, you’ll be greeted by a personal guide who will expedite you through customs and immigration.
When possible, Centurion can coordinate ground transportation as well, and baggage porters are available for a fee.
Dining and Entertainment: Access to the Inaccessible 🍾
Exclusive Dining Access:
The card gives access to exclusive dining experiences, including reservations at some world-class restaurants and curated culinary events.
Cardholders can also enjoy gourmet culinary masterpieces from renowned chefs and unique menus, often tailored specifically for Centurion members.
Dining Capabilities:
- Global Restaurant Access: Reservations at over 1,000 exclusive restaurants worldwide
- Wine Programs: Partnerships with Crush® Wine & Spirits for private tastings
- Custom Experiences: Specially arranged wine tours in Napa Valley and Tuscany
By Invitation Only Events:
Through its unique “By Invitation Only” service, the Centurion Black Card grants access to exclusive events, such as private concerts, VIP sporting events, private dining nights, luxury shopping events, and cultural experiences that are not available to the general public.
Examples of Exclusive Events:
- Private suite at the Kentucky Derby
- VIP package at Wimbledon
- Yacht access at Grand Prix de Monaco
- Private concerts and artist meet-and-greets
- Luxury brand shopping events
The Fine Print: What You’re Actually Getting 📋
Rewards Structure (The Weakness):
The Centurion Card† has some impressive benefits, but it falls flat in the points-earning arena.
Cardmembers earn just one Membership Rewards point per dollar spent on all purchases.
Earning Rates:
- Standard Purchases: 1x Membership Rewards points per $1
- Large Purchases: 1.5x points per $1 on purchases over $5,000 (up to 1 million bonus points annually)
Why the Low Earning Rate: This card is all about the perks, which fast-track you to an upscale experience when you travel, exercise and shop. The rewards are secondary to the service and status.
Transfer Partners:
- Availability: Same as other Amex cards
- Value: Standard 1:1 transfers to airline and hotel partners
- Redemption Options: Membership Rewards catalog, statement credits (poor value at 0.6¢/point)
Purchase Protection:
- Coverage: 90-day purchase protection, extended warranties
- Return Protection: Comprehensive coverage for high-value items
- Amount: Varies but substantial for luxury purchases
Global Variations: The Centurion Around the World 🌍
Regional Differences:
United States:
- Full benefits package as described
- Access to Centurion Lounges
- Delta SkyMiles Platinum status
United Kingdom:
- Annual Fee: £3,400 + £3,400 initiation
- Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Gold Status
- Recent Changes: Emirates Skywards Gold status dropped in June 2024
Canada:
- Additional Benefit: Full access to Maple Leaf Lounges (Air Canada network)
- All other benefits similar to US version
Other Markets:
- Some locations issue EMV chip plastic cards instead of titanium
- Regional airline partnerships vary
- Local elite status programs included where applicable
Real-World Experiences: What Cardholders Actually Say 💬
Success Stories:
From verified reports and public statements:
The Positives:
- Concierge Effectiveness: Consistently delivers on seemingly impossible requests
- Status Recognition: Immediate recognition and preferential treatment
- Travel Comfort: Seamless premium travel experiences
- Problem Resolution: Quick solutions to travel emergencies
The Reality Check:
From a UK cardholder’s experience:
“I joined in November and I’m already thinking of cancelling, to get as much of the annual fee back as possible. The joining fee is a painful write-off. I feel quite the fool for joining. The concierge has never come through with dinner reservations, the flights/holidays they’ve quoted have been much more than BA and I don’t need the card as a status symbol.”
When It Works Best:
- Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals: Those for whom the fees are negligible
- Frequent International Travelers: Maximum utilization of travel benefits
- Business Entertainment: Impressive client entertainment capabilities
- Emergency Situations: Unparalleled crisis management support
The Competition: How Does It Compare? ⚔️
Centurion vs. Platinum Card:
Many of the perks offered by the AmEx Centurion Card can be had with The Platinum Card® from American Express, a card that carries a much more affordable $695 annual fee compared to its counterpart.
| Feature | Centurion | Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $5,000 | $695 |
| Initiation Fee | $10,000 | None |
| Delta Status | Platinum Medallion | None |
| Hilton Status | Diamond | Gold |
| Guest Lounge Access | 2 guests always | Limited/fees apply |
| Concierge | Dedicated personal | Standard service |
| Invitation Required | Yes | No |
Alternative Ultra-Premium Cards:
For those seeking premium benefits without the Centurion’s exclusivity:
Chase Sapphire Reserve:
- $550 annual fee
- 4x points on travel and dining
- Priority Pass lounge access
Capital One Venture X:
- $395 annual fee
- 2x miles on all purchases
- Significant travel credits
Amex Platinum:
- $695 annual fee
- Multiple bonus categories
- Extensive travel benefits
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Get This Card 🎯
Ideal Centurion Candidates:
✅ Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (net worth $10M+)
✅ Frequent International Business Travelers
✅ C-Suite Executives and Entrepreneurs
✅ Celebrities and Public Figures
✅ Those Who Value Service Over Rewards
✅ People Who Entertain High-Profile Clients
Requirements Reality Check:
- Minimum Annual Spending: $250,000+ on existing Amex cards
- Annual Income: $1,000,000+ (rumored requirement)
- Existing Amex Relationship: 1+ years in good standing
- Credit Score: 800+ (excellent credit history)
- Liquidity: Ability to pay $15,000 in first-year fees without stress
Who Should Skip This Card:
❌ Rewards Optimizers (poor earning rates)
❌ Fee-Sensitive Individuals (astronomical costs)
❌ Infrequent Travelers (can’t maximize benefits)
❌ Those Seeking Broad Acceptance (Amex limitations)
❌ Privacy-Conscious Individuals (highly visible status symbol)
The Business Case: Corporate Centurion 💼
Business Variant Benefits:
The American Express Centurion Business Credit Card is an exclusive and high-end financial tool tailored to meet the unique needs of successful business owners and entrepreneurs.
Corporate Applications:
- Executive Compensation: Ultra-premium benefit for key employees
- Client Entertainment: Impressive business entertaining capabilities
- Travel Efficiency: Premium travel experiences for executives
- Relationship Building: Networking opportunities with other cardholders
Tax Considerations: Those who can expense the annual fee of the small business Centurion card may find it to be a valuable business tool that’s even more affordable than the personal version.
Cultural Impact: More Than Just a Card 🎭
The Status Symbol:
The Centurion Card has become a coveted symbol, not just for the material comforts it affords, but for the doors it opens and the connections it fosters within a community of like-minded high-achievers.
Pop Culture References:
- Jerry Seinfeld’s Story: Claimed to be the first Centurion cardholder after calling American Express directly
- Celebrity Usage: Known to be carried by A-list celebrities and business moguls
- Media Coverage: Regular feature in luxury lifestyle publications
Networking Value:
The exclusivity and prestige associated with this elite credit card create an immediate conversation starter at upscale events and gatherings, making it easier to connect with influential people.
Community Benefits:
- Shared Success Level: Cardholders share common affluence and achievement
- Business Opportunities: Networking can lead to strategic partnerships
- Exclusive Events: Access to gatherings of other successful individuals
The Technology and Security 🔒
Physical Card Features:
- Material: Anodized titanium construction
- Design: Laser-engraved information and numbers
- Weight: Noticeably heavier than standard cards
- Durability: Virtually indestructible under normal use
Digital Features:
- Mobile Integration: Full American Express mobile app support
- Contactless Payment: ExpressPay technology where available
- Security: Advanced fraud protection and monitoring
Account Management:
- Dedicated Relationship Manager: Personalized account oversight
- Priority Customer Service: Immediate access to senior representatives
- Account Monitoring: Enhanced security and spending analysis
The Verdict: Is It Worth It? ⭐
Rating: 9/10 (For Qualified Individuals)
The Bottom Line:
The American Express Black Card is worth it only for a very small number of people who have enough disposable income to qualify and then take advantage of the card’s benefits. However, the card isn’t a realistic option for most people.
When It Makes Sense:
- Annual spending on Amex cards: $500,000+
- Annual income: $1,000,000+
- Net worth: $10,000,000+
- Value placed on service and status: Extremely high
- Business entertainment needs: Significant and frequent
The Service Premium:
The main perk of the Amex Black card is the bragging rights if you were able to get it. Beyond prestige, the concierge service is legendary for its ability to satisfy nearly every request.
Alternative Recommendation:
Hot Tip: For the vast majority of us, it actually makes better sense to go for The Platinum Card® from American Express, which provides many of the same benefits at a much lower cost.
Historical Context: The Evolution of Elite 📚
The Original Black Card (1983-1987):
Services included “dispatching limousines or helicopters for clients, booking their vacations and finding medical care in exotic places.” Middleton said American Express abandoned the black card in 1987 because the newly introduced Platinum Card offered “95% of the black card’s services.”
The Modern Centurion (1999-Present):
- 1999: Launch of current Centurion Card
- 2015: Largest known purchase: $170.4M Modigliani painting
- 2021: Introduction of online invitation request system
- 2024: Continued refinement of benefits and services
Cultural Evolution:
The card transitioned from a purely functional tool to a cultural symbol of achievement and status in the ultra-high-net-worth community.
Frequently Asked Questions 🙋
Q: Can I apply for the Centurion Card directly?
A: No. You cannot apply for the Centurion® Card from American Express as it is an invitation-only card. American Express sends invitations to select individuals who meet their strict criteria.
Q: What’s the credit limit on the Centurion Card?
A: The Centurion card doesn’t have a preset credit limit, and account holders are expected to pay their card in full at the end of each billing cycle.
Q: How many people have this card?
A: Experts estimate that there are around 100,000 Amex Centurion cardholders in the world, with only about 20,000 of those being in the United States.
Q: What’s the largest purchase ever made with a Centurion Card?
A: The largest known purchase made with the Centurion card is the Nu couché painting by Amedeo Modigliani, which businessman Liu Yiqian bought for US$170,405,000 at a Christie’s auction in New York in 2015.
Q: Does the card really make a difference in how you’re treated?
A: Yes, when you flash it, you are simply treated differently. The titanium construction and exclusive nature create immediate recognition in luxury service environments.
The Final Word: A Card for the Few 👑
The American Express Centurion Card represents the absolute pinnacle of credit card luxury and exclusivity. It’s not just a payment method—it’s a lifestyle enabler for those who can afford its extraordinary costs and meet its stringent requirements.
Key Takeaways:
- Ultra-Exclusive Access: Invitation-only with mysterious criteria
- Astronomical Costs: $15,000 first year, $5,000 annually thereafter
- Unmatched Service: 24/7 dedicated concierge willing to attempt anything legal
- Status Symbol: Immediate recognition in elite circles
- Travel Luxury: Unparalleled travel benefits and elite status
- Poor Rewards: Low earning rates—service is the primary value
The Ultimate Question:
For the ultra-wealthy, the question isn’t whether they can afford the Centurion Card—it’s whether they can afford not to have it when operating in circles where such status symbols matter.
Final Recommendation:
Get it if: You’re invited, earn $1M+ annually, spend $500K+ on Amex cards, and value exclusive service above all else.
Skip it if: You’re focused on rewards optimization, can’t easily afford the fees, or don’t move in circles where such prestige matters.
The Centurion Card isn’t for everyone—and that’s exactly the point. It’s the ultimate exclusive club membership, disguised as a piece of anodized titanium.
“When you are carrying around a card that costs more than most people’s annual salary just to own, you’re not just paying for benefits—you’re paying for a lifestyle and status that money alone cannot buy.”
Disclaimer: The Centurion Card from American Express is invitation-only. Benefits and requirements change without notice. This review is based on publicly available information and cardholder reports as of 2024.*