Rare Apple-1 Signed by Wozniak & Jobs Hits the Auction Block

The upcoming auction of an original Apple-1 computer, autographed by Apple co-founder Steve “Woz” Wozniak, is expected to fetch up to $800,000 in October. This particular Apple-1, known as the “Hatfield” Apple-1, is one of fewer than 75 of these computers still in existence. It is listed as number 48 on the Apple-1 registry and is in working condition, adding to its value.

The “Hatfield” Apple-1 is named after its original owner, Fred Hatfield, who was a computer enthusiast and employee of Computer Data Systems. The machine is signed by Wozniak and comes with a letter signed by Steve Jobs, authorizing a trade-in for the newly released Apple II after Hatfield expressed concerns about the limited availability of Apple-1 software.

Although Hatfield declined the offer due to the cost of the upgrade, the correspondence from Jobs provides insight into Apple’s early days when Jobs and Wozniak were deeply involved in all aspects of the business. The Apple-1 was eventually sold by Hatfield in 2013 for $40,000, but after being repaired and signed by Woz, it was later auctioned for $671,400.

Ian Ehling, Director of Fine Books & Manuscripts at Bonhams, describes the Apple-1 as a significant milestone in computing history. The “Hatfield” Apple-1 is considered one of the most important surviving examples, given its operational status and the signatures of both Wozniak and Jobs.

For those interested in bidding on this historic piece of technology, the “Hatfield” Apple-1 will be available for private and public viewings at various Bonhams locations. Bidding will take place from October 4 to October 14.

The Apple-1, produced in 1976 by Jobs and Wozniak, was one of the first personal computers available commercially. It was initially sold as a bare circuit board but later fully assembled by Jobs and sold to The Byte Shop for $666.66.

Operational Apple-1 computers have fetched high prices at auction, with some selling for over $900,000. Each sale varies based on the condition and history of the specific machine.

The Apple-1 was powered by the MOS Technology 6502 microprocessor and was the foundation of Apple Inc. It was unique in that it came pre-assembled with video display terminal circuitry, unlike other hobbyist computers of the time.

In addition to the “Hatfield” Apple-1, Bonhams’ upcoming auction will feature other significant Apple-related items, including an Apple Lisa 1 Microcomputer, an Apple Jolly Roger Pirate Flag, an Apple Paladin prototype, and a clear plastic prototype Apple Macintosh Portable.

Overall, the “Hatfield” Apple-1 is a rare and important piece of computing history that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.