5th annual MTA collectibles pop-up shop bridges a community of creatives
The annual event has become a hot commodity for those eager to own a piece of New York City transit history.
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From the rumble of trains overhead to the buzz of anticipation below, subway fans and collectors alike packed the pavement beneath the platform for the 5th annual MTA Memorabilia and Collectibles Pop-Up Shop.
The annual event, hosted by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, has become a hot commodity for those eager to own a piece of New York City transit history.
“The community loves it, as you can tell,” said Vivian Ng, Manager of Asset Recovery for the MTA. “They don’t mind waiting in line - and they’re just smiles. That’s really rewarding.”
Inside the pop-up, attendees dug through racks and displays for unique treasures: Subway signs, benches, and other retired fleet items salvaged from rehabilitated stations. Among the most popular finds this year? The distinctive R46 bucket seats, which Ng says have been “a huge hit for everybody.”
For many, the draw isn’t just the items themselves, it’s the memories attached to them. Collector Ivan Kwong proudly clutched his new signage modeled after the MetroCard , explaining, “I got it because it’s pretty nostalgic. They’re no longer going to make these in December.”
Prices ranged from $85 for smaller signs to as high as $25,000 for larger, more iconic displays. One attendee, Jessica Giesenkirchen, said she waited three hours in line for her chance to buy a piece of the city’s past. “I was like, I’ll spend $100 - because I’m not leaving without something!” she said.
The event also drew younger fans. Julius, attending with his mom, was all smiles as he picked out his very first subway sign. “This is exciting. I like trains so much!” he said.
For those who couldn’t make it this year, the MTA is offering a way to stay connected. Fans can sign up for the MTA Pop-Up Shop mailing list to be notified about future pop-ups and exclusive memorabilia releases.
