Abstract:
An original Apple I computer is expected to fetch between $500,000 and $800,000 at an auction in October this year. There are currently less than 75 known Apple I computers in existence, and even fewer of them are functioning properly. This Apple I computer, known as "Hatfield," is ranked No. 48 on the Apple I registry and is still in working condition.
This computer was originally purchased by Fred Hatfield, a computer enthusiast and employee of Computer Data Systems. The fuselage is signed by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and also comes with a letter written and signed by Steve Jobs to Hatfield.
According to reports, Hatfield once complained about software problems with the Apple I, and Jobs subsequently approved that he replace the computer with the then-newly released Apple II. However, Hatfield ultimately walked away from the deal because the upgrade would have cost an extra $400.
In 2013, Hatfield sold the Apple I for $40,000. The computer was no longer working, but the buyer later repaired it, asked Wozniak to sign it, and sold it at auction for $671,400. Now, this computer will be put up for auction again.
In 1976, Jobs and Wozniak produced a total of 200 Apple I units. The device was originally sold as a bare circuit board and assembled by hobbyists. Later, Jobs sold 50 fully assembled Apple I computers to the California-based retailer The Byte Shop, which resold them for $666.66 each.
Before the auction, public and private buyers can view this Hatfield Apple I computer in Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco and New York. The specific date and arrangement have been announced on the auctioneer's website. Auction bidding will take place from October 4th to October 14th.
In the past, functioning Apple I computers have fetched over $900,000 at auction. However, the final price will still vary based on factors such as the condition of the computer as well as its provenance and collecting experience.
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