articleThe Brief The MTA is auctioning off a limited number of full-sized MetroCard vending machines and smaller MetroCard "express" machines. MetroCard machines were phased out by the OMNY tap and pay system used on subways and buses today. What we know:Bidding for full-sized MetroCard vending machines and smaller "express" machines opened at 8 a.m. Wednesday. What we don't know:The MTA did not specify the exact number of MetroCard vending machines that are available through the auction. Dig deeper:MetroCard vending machines were first installed in January 1999, allowing riders to buy and reload MetroCards with cash, credit and debit cards.