MTA Offers Retired MetroCard Kiosks to Transit Enthusiasts

For three decades, the distinct, primary-colored MetroCard vending machines served as a fixture of the New York City subway experience. With the system now fully transitioned to the OMNY contactless payment platform, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has announced it is auctioning off a selection of these retired units to the public.

The machines, originally designed by Antenna Design’s Masamichi Udagawa and Sigi Moeslinger, were noted for their intuitive interfaces and durable, graffiti-resistant stainless-steel construction. While the MTA previously utilized a different model that faced public criticism, the Antenna-designed kiosks became a recognizable part of the city's transit aesthetic. Paola Antonelli, a senior curator at the Museum of Modern Art, has previously praised the machines for their sturdy, functional design that she felt captured a specific sense of New York identity.

The auction, which commenced on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, includes both the large, full-service vending machines and the more compact express units. The larger machines measure 80 inches long and weigh approximately 1,050 pounds, while the express versions weigh roughly 210 pounds.

Prospective buyers should be aware that the units are being sold in "as-is" condition. According to the MTA, all electronic and payment-processing components have been removed from the hardware. Furthermore, the agency specifies that winning bidders are responsible for the pickup and transportation of the equipment, which must be scheduled in advance and completed within a 10-day window following the sale.

Reports regarding the duration of the auction have varied, with some sources indicating the bidding window closes on August 19, while others suggest it remains open until August 25. The MTA frequently offers various pieces of retired transit infrastructure—such as station benches, signage, and maps—to the public throughout the year, typically hosting a larger memorabilia event during the holiday season.