Today more than 300 MBTA employees will be handing out CharlieCards — the newest T-riding currency — at select subway stations across the city, allowing riders to use the card in the already-operational CharlieCard machines.

The CharlieCard will enable riders to pay the lowest price possible under the new fare system starting Jan. 1 — $1.70 one-way for the T and $1.25 for buses. Without the card, riders will pay $2.00 and $1.50, respectively, according to the MBTA website.

Until Jan. 1, the prices will remain $1.25 for subway rides and $0.90 for the bus, with or without the CharlieCard.

Unlike CharlieTickets, the cards are not passed through an automated-entry machine to open entry gates, but are scanned over a sensor square.

Passengers will be able to purchase CharlieCards at various retail outlets and convenience stores, where they will also be able to recharge them.

MBTA officials plan to install another 75 terminals before Jan. 1 and more than double that number by 2008.