Area code 212 is synonymous with Manhattan, New York City, and was one of the original codes established in 1947. With its short dialing time on rotary phones, 212 was reserved for New York due to its status as a global center. Though 646 and 332 have since been added as overlays, 212 numbers remain extremely rare and highly desired. Associated with finance, fashion, media, and culture, 212 symbolizes prestige and access in the heart of NYC. Ten-digit dialing is required, but the iconic nature of 212 gives it continued value in branding and identity.