MetroCard vending machines to be auctioned by the MTA

MetroCards may have been relegated to history, their loading and sales officially phased out in December.

But the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is offering the chance to own a MetroCard souvenir  as its vending and express machines are now up for public auction.

Nostalgic for a touch of real New York City Transit history?

The MTA bid submission form says: "This is your chance to bid on an authentic MetroCard vending machine and accessories — first installed in 1999, the colorful metal MVM and MEM are familiar to the millions of riders who take the subway each day. There are a limited number of machines available through this auction. Whether you're a collector, a transit enthusiast, or someone who just loves the industrial design, these machines are a rare find! Act fast, quantities are limited."

The MetroCard Vending Machines — or MVMs — measure 80 inches in height, 42 inches wide, 36 inches deep and weigh about 1,050 pounds. The MetroCard Express Machines — or MEMs — are 42 inches high and weigh about 210 pounds. All machines will be sold "as-is" and in "non-operational condition" — meaning all electronic and payment processing components have been removed before being offered for sale, the MTA said.

Bidding for the units opened Wednesday at 8 a.m., and offers must be received by Aug. 19 at 8 p.m., the MTA said.

Bids can be placed online.

Winning bidders must arrange a pickup of the machines within 10 days of being notified by the MTA.

The MTA said a limited number of machines would be available for pickup in Brooklyn, while the remaining machines must be picked up in Queens. The exact pickup locations will only be provided to winning bidders once payment has been received, the MTA said.