Apple-1 Computer Sets New Record, Selling for More Than $1.1 Million

One of the legendary Apple-1 computers was sold at a “Bonhams” auction for $1,148,200, setting a new record. The news was reported with reference to “Hypebeast.”

The final sale price significantly exceeded the pre-auction estimate of $500,000 to $800,000.

The rare machine, known as the “Hatfield” Apple-1, takes its name from its first owner, Fred Hatfield. In 1978, he contacted the company because of the limited amount of software available for the computer.

Steve Jobs then reportedly sent him a personal letter offering to exchange the Apple-1 for a new Apple II board with an additional payment of $400.

The number 48 board, hand-assembled by Steve Wozniak in 1976, is considered extremely rare. It is reported that only 74 Apple-1 computers remain worldwide today.

Hatfield initially sold the machine, which was in need of repair, together with Steve Jobs’ letter to a private buyer for $40,000.

After the computer was fully restored, Steve Wozniak signed its board. The working Apple-1 was later sold in 2013 for approximately $686,000.