Uncommon ‘Hatfield’ Apple-1 Sets New Auction Record with $1.15M Sale

The sale of a rare Apple-1 computer, designed and built by Steve Wozniak, has recently set a new record at a Bonhams auction, fetching an astounding $1.15 million. This particular unit, known as the “Hatfield” Apple-1, is one of only 200 ever made and is signed by Wozniak himself, accompanied by a letter from Steve Jobs.

Originally purchased by Fred Hatfield for $666.66, the “Hatfield” Apple-1 has seen a significant increase in value over the years. In 2013, it was sold for approximately $666,150 at an online auction. Fast forward to September 2026, and the computer went up for auction again, ultimately selling for the record-breaking amount mentioned earlier.

Ian Ehling, Bonhams’ director of fine books and manuscripts for North America, expressed delight in the exceptional result of the auction, calling the “Hatfield” Apple-1 a significant milestone in computing history. The spirited competition for this rare piece is a testament to its rarity and enduring appeal.

The computer, designated as No. 48 in the Apple-1 Registry, is well-known among Apple enthusiasts for its unique features, such as Wozniak’s signature on the motherboard and the accompanying letter from Jobs. In the letter, Jobs encourages Hatfield to trade in his Apple-1 for an Apple II motherboard by sending it back to Apple Computer Inc. along with a $400 check.

While the “Hatfield” Apple-1 holds a special place in Apple history, it is not the only one signed by Wozniak. Another Apple-1, signed by Wozniak at a crypto event in Dubai, sold for $340,100 in 2021. Janet Wozniak, Steve’s wife, initially had doubts about the authenticity of the computer, as true originals are rare and often mistaken for replicas.

At the time of the signing in Dubai, the Apple-1 was part of the AAPL Collection, one of the most comprehensive private collections of vintage Apple computers and accessories in the world. The significance of these rare Apple-1 computers, signed by the co-founders themselves, highlights their importance in the history of computing and as sought-after collector’s items.