The Apple-1 Computer, a groundbreaking invention by Steve Jobs and Steve ‘Woz’ Wozniak in the mid-1970s, was one of the first commercially available personal computers. This revolutionary device was designed as a hobbyist kit, offering users a complete computer without the need for soldering or additional components. Despite its exposed circuit board, which gives it a prototype-like appearance, the Apple-1 was a significant step forward in the world of computing.
While the Apple-1 was a significant innovation, its production was limited, and even fewer units remain in working order today. Many early owners opted to trade in their Apple-1 for the newer Apple II model, which led to the scarcity of these historical machines.
Recently, a fully operational Apple-1, previously owned by Dana Redington, an early Apple employee, was put up for auction and sold for a remarkable $315,914. Redington acquired the board during a time when Apple was transitioning to the Apple II, finding it among a pile of discarded boards. He chose the best motherboard and a couple of cassette interface cards with the permission of Wozniak and Jobs.
The sale included a complete working kit, showcasing the remarkable historical significance of this machine. The auction also included a vintage photo of Wozniak, adding to the allure of this unique piece of computer history. In June 2024, Redington captured a video of his former Apple-1 Computer in full working order, offering a glimpse into the early days of personal computing.
The impressive price tag of the recently sold Apple-1 serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of this machine. It represents not only a crucial step in the evolution of computing but also a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its creators, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
