In a recent auction held by Boston-based RR Auction, a fully operational Apple-1 computer signed by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak has been sold for an impressive sum of over $223,000. The Apple-1, one of the first personal computers built by the company, is a significant piece of tech history that helped launch Apple into the iconic company it is today.
The Apple-1, originally sold for $666 back in 1976, was expected to fetch around $200,000. However, its historical significance and excellent condition led to a higher final price. This particular unit has been meticulously restored and now features a custom case with a built-in keyboard. With only about 200 units manufactured in Steve Jobs’ garage in Los Altos, California, this computer represents a unique and valuable artifact from the early days of Apple.
The Apple-1 purchased at the auction was signed by Wozniak himself during an event at Bryant University in 2017. Its journey began when it was acquired used by an individual who sold it at a computer hobbyist show in Framingham, Massachusetts, back in 1980. Throughout the 1980s, it served its purpose as a functioning computer until it fell into the hands of Apple expert Corey Cohen, who brought it back to its operational state earlier this year.
The buyer, who wishes to remain anonymous, is undoubtedly a collector who recognizes the historical value of the Apple-1 computer. By acquiring this iconic piece of tech history, they not only obtain a rare item but also contribute to the preservation of Apple’s early days and the revolutionary impact of their products on the tech industry.
The Apple-1 computer was not the only item up for auction that attracted attention. An original handwritten advertisement for the Apple-1 Computer, written by Steve Jobs himself, was also sold at the same auction for nearly $176,000. Additionally, a company check signed by both Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, dated March 19, 1976, sold for over $135,000. These items further emphasize the significance and demand for collectibles related to Apple’s rise to prominence.
As Apple continues to dominate the tech industry with innovative products and services, the significance of their early creations only continues to grow. The sale of this Apple-1 computer serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of one of the most influential companies in the world. With the continuous advancements and breakthroughs in technology, it is essential to preserve and celebrate the history that paved the way for our modern digital era. Auctions like these provide a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire and cherish these technological relics, ensuring they are not forgotten in the fast-paced world of tech innovation.
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