“The Record-Breaking Sale of a Vintage Apple-1 Computer: A Milestone in Tech History”

In 2014, the auction of a rare Apple-1 computer by Bonhams in New York stunned the tech world when it fetched a staggering $905,000, surpassing its estimated value of $300,000 to $500,000. This remarkable sale set a new record for the highest price paid for a vintage Apple computer, a title that still stands six years later, as confirmed by the auction house. The Apple-1, launched in July 1976, marked the genesis of Apple’s desktop computing revolution, with only 200 units hand-assembled by co-founder Steve Wozniak, notably in Steve Jobs’ parents’ garage. The unit auctioned was among the first batch of 50 machines produced, contributing to its exceptional value. Former Bonhams director Cassandra Hatton, who managed the sale, revealed that computer historian Corey Cohen evaluated the Apple-1, noting its pristine condition. Cohen highlighted the motherboard’s originality and functionality, with no signs of alterations, which significantly added to its appeal among vintage technology collectors. This landmark auction not only underscored the enduring fascination with Apple’s iconic beginnings but also demonstrated the immense value placed on rare and well-preserved artifacts from the dawn of the digital age.

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