The computer revolution has changed all of our lives. Now, its early pioneers are historic figures. And they’re very collectible, as a recent $1.6-million auction of early Apple memorabilia proves.
Steve Jobs died in 2011 aged just 56. Along with Steve Wozniak he founded Apple in 1976.
The company started at the cutting edge of a nascent industry that was largely the preserve of hobbyists and specialists using DIY machinery.
Today, Apple is worth $2.6 trillion and its devices are in pockets and homes around the world.
Jobs boasted a good deal of personal charisma and is uniquely collectible among early tech pioneers.
Last week, a sale dedicated to the early days of the company, achieved $1.6 million.
Associations with Steve Jobs featured strongly in the highest-valued items.
A business card signed in 1983 made $181,000.
A cheque Jobs signed to pay a $200 company phone bill from July 1976 realised $66,000.
Purely technical items also made good money.
This iPhone cost $499 new in 2007, the packaging was key to its nearly $150,000 sale today.
A first-gen iPhone, in a quickly discontinued 4GB version, made $147,286.
A set of early iMacs made over $10,000.
A prototype mouse was worth nearly $15,000.
Even an early manual was sold for $250.
An Apple-1 computer signed by Wozniak realised $323,789.
But Jobs, who died so tragically young and had a big personality, is the real collectible celebrity in this sector.
Bobby Livingston, of RR Auction, said: “The sale of the Steve Jobs-signed Apple business card for over $180,000 sets a new standard in autographed business cards.
“It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of Jobs and the profound impact of Apple on our modern world.”
Jobs is now one of the most valuable figures in the autographs and collectibles field.
The key for investment buyers is spotting the next Steve Jobs.
