Business cards are normally used to announce yourself, and to give the recipient your contact information. Now they&#ve got another use -- as collectibles.

Jonathan Cohen, copywriter/consultant for The Essential Message, is offering his oversized business cards as a limited-edition, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Not only do the cards have the usual name, address, and telephone number, but they expand to elaborate on the company&#s philosophy -- getting at your &#essential message&# so you can communicate more effectively and get more sales.

Why collectible business cards? We take business cards for granted, Cohen says. Like anything else you give to people who matter in your life, a business card has value.

These business cards are signed and numbered by Cohen, in limited quantities. Once this run is gone, they&#re gone forever. You have the chance to own a real piece of history here, Cohen adds. And the best part? It&#s free -- aside from shipping of course.

Will Jonathan Cohen&#s Essential Message business cards appreciate in value? It&#s anyone&#s guess, he adds. But here&#s what I think: Wouldn&#t you rather have a handsomely-framed business card in your office, rather than a black velvet poster with dogs playing poker?