Most people use credit cards for everyday purchases, paying for services, or even travel expenses. However, some transactions have broken all records, demonstrating the financial power and extreme limits of these financial instruments.

Throughout credit card history, there have been cases where consumers spend millions of dollars in a single transaction. This leads us to the question: What was the largest credit card purchase ever?

The short answer: Amedeo Modigliani's portrait, purchased by Liu Yiqian. Below, we reveal the details and analyze the credit card that made it possible.

Credit Card Purchase: What Has Been the Largest Transaction in History?

$170 Million: The Largest Credit Card Purchase Ever

The largest credit card purchase recorded to date was made by businessman and art collector Liu Yiqian in 2015. He acquired the iconic painting “Nu Couché” by Amedeo Modigliani for $170.4 million at a Christie’s auction in New York.

The multi-million-dollar painting wasn’t the only surprising element—so was the fact that he paid using the American Express Centurion Card, the famous luxury “black card” from Amex.

It’s worth noting that American Express never officially confirmed the transaction. However, Liu was already known for making high-value purchases with a credit card.

Another example? He previously bought a Ming Dynasty teacup for $36 million, also with a credit card.

Which Credit Card Offers the Highest Limits?

Several credit cards offer exceptionally high spending limits.

However, the American Express Centurion Card, also known as the American Express Black Card, is one of the highest-limit credit cards in the world.

It is common for this card to be used for the largest purchases, as it adjusts spending capacity based on the cardholder’s financial profile.

What You Need to Know About the American Express Centurion Card:

A Symbol of Exclusivity

The Centurion Black Card is not a typical credit card because:

• It is not advertised.

• It cannot be applied for directly.

• It is only available by special invitation from American Express.

The Black Card represents global purchasing power, accessible in various countries with valuable currencies.

However, the requirements for qualification include being an Amex Platinum cardholder and demonstrating an annual spend of at least $200,000. This may vary by country.

Who Is It Ideal For?

It is designed for high-net-worth individuals capable of spending enormous sums of money on private jets, yachts, luxury jewelry, and elite services.

It is also for frequent travelers and high-spending individuals seeking exclusive benefits in hotels, airports, and luxury experiences.

More than just a card, it is a symbol of absolute VIP access, offering benefits tailored to the top 1% of the 1%.

No Predefined Spending Limit

Unlike other credit cards, it does not have a fixed credit limit. The Centurion Card is based on the cardholder’s spending capacity and history with American Express.

However, the initial membership fee in the United States is $10,000, with an annual fee of $5,000.

Who Shouldn’t Get It?

Obtaining the Amex Centurion  is unattainable in countries with the world’s weakest currencies.

It’s also not for those looking to save on fees or occasional travelers.

Even high-income individuals may struggle to get it—without an invitation, it’s simply not an option.

Notable Benefits of the American Express Centurion Card

Most of its benefits focus on premium experiences, such as:

• Elite status in hotels and airlines.

• Discounts on private jets and luxury cars.

• Unlimited access to VIP airport lounges.

• Exclusive concierge service for shopping, reservations, and personalized experiences.

As an iconic credit card, it is reserved for individuals with extremely high spending power.

Credit Card Usage in Mexico (2024 Data)

During the first half of 2024, credit card usage in Mexico showed notable growth, especially in e-commerce transactions, according to CONDUSEF.

Here’s a summary of credit and debit card usage in 2024:

Meanwhile, the top issuing institutions were BBVA Mexico (43.7% of transactions) and Banamex (16.4%).

Line of Credit vs. Credit Card: Which Is Better?

Choosing between the two depends on your financial situation and needs.

Generally, a line of credit (LOC) is more favorable for large expenses, given its lower interest rates. However, for daily spending and convenience, a credit card can be a better option—if managed wisely.

Here are the key differences:

It is also important to note that securing a line of credit with a property can reduce the interest rate. But this also increases the risk, since default could result in the loss of the collateral.

On the other hand, making a payment or purchase with a credit card is easier, but you must be careful to avoid excessive debt.

Interest rates are variable on both the line of credit and the credit card.

DolarCard: A Smart Alternative for International Payments

If you’re looking for a flexible option for payments without relying on a traditional credit card or LOC, DolarApp is the answer.

With DolarApp, you can get a DolarCard, an international card for use abroad.

Once you activate your digital dollar (USDc) account, you can request a virtual card for online purchases or a physical card for traveling abroad.

It’s also compatible with Apple Pay, allowing you to make purchases without needing a physical card.

Since USDc is one of the world’s most stable digital currencies, DolarApp facilitates international transactions—you can send or receive money from a U.S. account for just 3 USDc per transaction.

What are you waiting for? Discover everything DolarApp has to offer!