This readout and obliteration head comprises, on a load-bearing frame, an entry for a magnetic card in communication with a channel receiving a portion of the magnetic card. A magnetic card readout and obliteration assembly is supported in the frame and is connected to a first motor for translating to and away from the channel and therefore an inserted magnetic card and to a second motor for rotating the assembly with respect to the card and effectuation of readout and obliteration of the card. The head further comprises a centering and locking pin driven by the first motor for locking the card during readout and obliteration of card.