In a recent auction held by Boston-based RR Auction, a fully operational Apple-1 computer signed by Steve Wozniak, the co-founder of Apple, was sold for more than $223,000. This iconic piece of technology, one of the first personal computers built by Apple, has a significant historical value and is a prized possession for collectors and technology enthusiasts alike.
The Apple-1 holds immense significance in the world of computers as it played a pivotal role in the establishment and success of Apple Inc. In the mid-1970s, around 200 Apple-1 units were manufactured in Steve Jobs’ garage in Los Altos, California. These computers, priced at $666 during their initial release, became a fundamental component that propelled Apple into the forefront of the tech industry.
Apple Inc. made history in June by becoming the first publicly traded company to reach a staggering $3 trillion market value. The sale of this rare Apple-1 computer serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the company and its early contributions to the world of computing.
The Apple-1 sold at the auction had undergone meticulous restoration, ensuring that it was in a fully operational state. Additionally, it featured a custom case with a built-in keyboard, further enhancing its appeal to collectors. The restoration was conducted by Apple expert Corey Cohen, who successfully brought the computer back to its original working condition earlier this year.
During an event at Bryant University in 2017, Steve Wozniak personally signed this Apple-1 computer, adding an invaluable touch of authenticity. Wozniak’s signature not only validates the computer’s origins but also serves as a unique connection to the early days of Apple and the individuals who played a vital role in its formation.
The buyer of the Apple-1 computer has chosen to remain anonymous, highlighting the exclusivity and desirability of this piece of technology. For the fortunate collector, this acquisition represents more than just a valuable item; it is a symbol of innovation, progress, and the rich history associated with one of the most influential companies in the world.
In addition to the Apple-1 computer, other Apple-related artifacts were sold at the auction. An original handwritten advertisement for the Apple-1 Computer, personally written by Steve Jobs, fetched an impressive price of nearly $176,000. This unique document provides a glimpse into the early marketing efforts of Apple and the visionary thinking of its co-founder. Furthermore, an Apple company check, numbered 2 and signed by both Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, dating back to March 19, 1976, was sold for over $135,000, serving as a tangible piece of the company’s early financial transactions.
The sale of the Apple-1 computer signed by Steve Wozniak at the RR Auction marks a significant milestone in the world of technology memorabilia. With its fully operational state, custom case, and most importantly, the signature of one of Apple’s co-founders, this computer showcases the remarkable beginnings of the iconic company. As a collector’s item, it symbolizes the history and innovation that Apple has championed over the years, cementing its position as an industry leader and a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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