Breker, a German auction house, is set to put an Apple-1 in working order up for sale later this month. Those familiar with the auction predict it may fetch between $261,000 and $392,000, as one of only an estimated six functioning Apple-1 computers still in existence.
The record sale price for an Apple-1 was set last year in an auction that reached $640,000, also conducted by Breker and noted by AppleInsider.
The computer is signed by Steve Wozniak after originally being owned by Fred Hatfield from Computer Data Systems. Also accompanying the device is the original manual and a letter from Steve Jobs to Hafield, offering him the chance to exchange his Apple-1 for an Apple II 4K motherboard for an extra $400. This would have been something of a saving, as the Apple II went on sale originally in 1977 for $1,298.
First released in 1976, the Apple-1 was originally priced at the decidedly ominous sum of $666.66, with just 200 units ever put into production. It is estimated there are roughly 30 to 50 units still intact, with just an estimated six in working order, one of which is the focal point of this auction.
Mike Willegal, an engineer who has indexed 41 Apple-1 computers, spoke about the machine going up for sale:
That is the Fred Hatfield machine listed in my registry. It"s been cleaned up and brought into operating condition.
He went on to add:
I have no clue about what will win it, but it seems like the European auctions seem to be gathering the highest bids, so it may well reach its estimated value.
Source: ComputerWorld | Image via Breker