In a surprising turn of events, iPhones, known for their rapid depreciation, showcased an exception at a US auction. A highly sought-after, first edition 4GB model, still sealed in its original packaging, fetched an astonishing $190,372.80 (£145,416).
This particular iPhone variant holds immense value due to its limited production, making it the coveted "Holy Grail" among iPhone collectors.
Conducted by LCG Auctions, the auction attracted significant attention, resulting in a total of 28 bids. The final selling price reached almost 400 times its original retail value. It is worth noting that the total fee encompasses administrative costs in addition to the buyer's premium, which refers to the extra amount paid by the buyer to the auction house.
Overall, this extraordinary auction outcome highlights the exceptional worth placed on rare and pristine first edition iPhones by enthusiasts and collectors.
The buyer's premium, an additional amount paid by the winning bidder, directly benefits the auction house and not the seller in this case.
According to LCG Auctions, the renowned auction house overseeing the event, this particular first edition iPhone was categorized as a highly sought-after and "red-hot collectible" in the high-end market. The auction house further emphasized the rarity and desirability of this model by highlighting that two other factory-sealed, first edition iPhones had previously sold at record-breaking prices within the past year.
The auction listing on their website provided a detailed description of the iPhone, portraying it as an exceptionally rare find. It was described as a flawlessly preserved, factory-sealed, first-release 4GB model, exhibiting impeccable condition along its surface and edges. The factory seal was noted to be clean, displaying accurate seam details and tightness.
Overall, the exceptional attributes and scarcity of this particular iPhone model contributed to its significant value and appeal among collectors and enthusiasts in the high-end market.
Rare Unopened First Edition iPhone Smashes Records at Auction, Selling for $190,372
In a remarkable auction event, a first edition 4GB iPhone, which was originally sold for $599 (£457), has shattered all previous records by fetching an astonishing $190,372.80. Initially expected to be valued between $50,000 and $100,000, this rare, unopened model exceeded all projections.
Released in 2007 under the leadership of then Apple CEO Steve Jobs, the 4GB iPhone faced a discontinued fate merely two months after its launch due to lackluster sales. Customers predominantly opted for the 8GB model, which provided double the storage capacity for an additional $100.
Occasionally, unique Apple memorabilia and artifacts from Jobs' life and career appear in auctions. These items include a poem penned by Jobs in a high school yearbook, college photographs, and a business card dating back to 1978.
Steve Jobs, a co-founder of Apple, passed away in 2011 at the age of 56 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. His contributions were lauded by Apple, acknowledging his role in countless innovations that have enriched and improved lives, ultimately making the world a better place. Jobs revolutionized the tech industry with groundbreaking products such as the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad.