1972 (2) New York Subway Guide, NYC Transit Authority [Design: Massimo Vignelli]

New York Subway Guide, 1972 (2). New York City Transit Authority (Metropolitan Transportation Authority, MTA), 3.75 x 7 folded pocket map, 18 x 21 flat, printed double-sided. Design by Massimo Vignelli (Unimark International: Massimo Vignelli and Bob Noorda, designer Joan Charysyn and Vignelli Associates).

Based on principles set forth by Henry Beck’s London Underground map designed in 1933, this iconic diagrammatic map — without NYC topography — is set on both forty-five and ninety-degree angles. Each line features a unique bright color and each stop is represented by a dot with white and neutral colors in the background featuring bodies of water and parks. The map, seen as “controversial” by many New Yorkers when it was first released is greatly admired today!

The “pocket map” version, produced for customers to take with them was first printed in August, 1972. On one-side it features the system diagram, a “How To Use This Map” and a “Key”, with a simplified list of subway services (IRT, IND, BMT). The verso includes service details such as: stops, notes, and places to visit. This is the original second version “1972 (2)” printed in ten colors and set in Helvetica and Helvetica Medium; subsequent editions used Trade Gothic. ”The first major revision of the map in 1974 entailed some service-related and geographical changes. The biggest change, however, was a subtle one: the switch from Helvetica Medium for station names to Trade Gothic.” — New York Transit Museum

A very good plus, original subway map with only a hint of wear along the edges and to the folds when opened flat. Some light pencil and a circular stain in the margins on both sides. For a seriously detailed account of the history and design of the New York City subway map(s) see Peter Lloyd’s website and 2012 Vignelli Transit Maps book.