The Old Desktop Computer That's Now Worth A Ton Of Money

The Apple Macintosh 128K wasn't the first computer developed and launched by Apple, but when it launched in January 24th, 1984, it was considered the best computer on the market. After the launch, each unit sold for $2,495, which is roughly $7,679+ of today's currency, but many bought it despite the steep pricing. The success of the launch was most likely the simplicity of its features that made it accessible to learn for almost everyone. The screen of the Macintosh 128K was 9-inches in size and had a monochrome display. The desktop icons were another great feature that helped it stand out.

These features altogether made operating a computer less intimidating, plus the intuitive visuals made it appear less boring to everyday users. Apple invested a good sum and ensured the iconic "1984" Super Bowl ad framed it as a formidable competition against the IBM, which dominated computing at the time. Initial sales hit 70,000 units within four months, but reactions were mixed. Critics constantly highlighted its limited 128KB RAM which forced frequent disk swaps and was unable to expand. It also lacked the drag and drop function, yet, its impact was undeniable.

While it's been overshadowed by later models, the Macintosh 128K still commands premium prices in the vintage tech market. Each unit that is presented in working condition typically sells for $1,500 or more, while samples that still retain the original packaging, complete with manuals, and accessories could sell for much more. In 2019, a prototype of 128K was sold by Bonhams with the final bid at $150,075. At a 2021 auction, another Macintosh motherboard presumably bearing the autographs of Steve Jobs and Jef Raskin sold for $132,049. This is not an isolated case in the tech space as old apple products can also fetch you a ton of money, the same as vintage Motorola cell phones in great condition.

There have also been other cases where systems with missing components like keyboards or a mouse fetched $500 to $1,000. The most recent and last-known sale of a high-value Macintosh prototype is one rumored to have been used by Steve Jobs when he worked at Next Inc. It sold in 2022, and was bought for $126,375. The value is mostly fueled by demand from restorers who need them for unique jobs and historians that practically collect past relics and objects. Before Apple replaced it with the 512K known as Fat Mac, only 372,000 units of Macintosh 128K were produced. It is estimated that fewer than 10,000 are currently in existence, with less than 1,000 in fully operational states.

For collectors that are interested in the Macintosh 128K, evaluate your purchases and prioritize units with complete provenance, including original packaging, manuals, and software. Auction records show that Macintosh 128Ks with verifiable histories such as ownership by early tech firms or educational institutions sell for 20% to 50% more than anonymous units. Verify power-on status, intact CRT screens, and working floppy drives. Avoid modified systems, they mostly possess non-original components, like modern power supplies, which typically reduces the resale value.

Learn some preservation practices because storage conditions directly impact how well a product lasts. Store in spaces with the humidity level between 50% to 100%, keep temperatures stable, which will prevent capacitor leakage and plastic degradation. It's advisable to use parts that are period-accurate and also sourced from trusted vendors, at the same time, document all maintenance because keeping a meticulous service record presents you as a responsible owner and enhances buyer confidence.

The availability of fewer than 1,000 functional units suggests a sustained appreciation of the 128K, particularly the ones that are still sealed or museum-grade examples. The ratings seem in favor of collectors, however, one should also consider that there are risks involved in such businesses. Most times, rising interest rates, and the illegal reproduction of parts may eventually harm the market, but at the moment, it is thriving. Find out about the unexpected value of your old T-shirts.