Visa and Mastercards

What does the issue number on the front of a Mastercard mean?

On the bottom left corner of my Mastercard there is a number. Do I have to use this number when I charge with my Mastercard?

Public Comments

1. Usually not. The important numbers are the account number & expiry date embossed on the front and a 3 or 4 digit code imprinted in the signature area on the back.
2. The issue number on any cash, credit, debit or other bank card is simply the number of that card you have had. The issue number on my credit card currently reads 6 meaning that I have had a replacement or renewed card six times. Whenever you get a new replacement card for that account, the only number on the front of the card that should change is the issue number. The only time you are likely to need that number is if you pay for something using that card over the telephone.