212 numbers definitely have a reputation that precedes itself. If you’re a New Yorker you probably understand what it means to have a 212 number. They have been referred to as the new “rent controlled apartment”, a status symbol (you’re considered a techie or early adopter with one of these numbers), and even sexy. So, why is this number so popular?
The 212 area code was created back in 1947 when they were implementing the North American Numbering Plan. The areas with the biggest populations got the area codes that could be dialed the fastest with a rotary dial, hence the 212 area code, according to Wikipedia. Today, the 212 area code is used for Manhattan and is one of the smallest area codes in North America.
A few fun facts about 212 numbers:
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In the movie Definitely, Maybe (2008), Emily gives Will her cell phone number while at a party. Funny thing about her number is that she gave Will a 212 number, but at that time 212 numbers were only used for landlines.
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After moving to New York from Connecticut, Foursquare co-founder Naveen Selvadurai needed a New York cell phone number to match his New York billing address. So, how did he go about getting his 212 number? Well, we’re not exactly sure because it was by undisclosed means.
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Need a 212 number? Have you checked eBay? Yup, you can buy 212 numbers off of eBay if you’re not too picky. Starting at $45 ranging upwards of $1000 or more if you want a number that ends in 2’s or 0’s. There is even one listed for $1,000,000 (or best offer) on there.
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Don’t know how to tell someone you’re just not interested? Give them the rejection hotline number. Today there are quite a few rejection hotline numbers but the original rejection hotline was a 212 number that is still around today. Give it a try: 212-660-2245.
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In “The Maid” episode of Seinfeld, Kramer gives out Elaine’s 212 number in order to receive restaurant menus by fax. Elaine doesn’t have a fax machine; as a result she is forced to change her number from a 212 to a 646 number, which she is NOT pleased about. The episode ends with Elaine taking a 212 number from an old woman in her building who died. The lengths people will go to, to get a 212 number!
Interested in a 212 number? We’re giving away a limited number of them to the Grasshopper customers who want them the most! Tweet at our Ambassador of Buzz at @GrasshopperBuzz or leave us a comment here on our blog and tell us why we should give you a 212 number! Lifelong goal? Trying to look cool? Born on February 12? Whatever the case may be, we want to hear about it and we want to help!
