When you were younger, have you ever begged your parents for the old gadgets and abandoned them as the newer tech came along? If, like so many, you’ve been hoarding vintage devices in your attic or garage, maybe it’s time to look over them again.
Without you even realizing it, you could be sitting on a goldmine. That includes a factory-sealed Apple iPod Classic 1st Generation listed for $60,000 on eBay. Here are 15 retro gadgets that could be your ticket to a fortune.
Original iPhone
Steve Jobs announced the first iPhone in 2007. Fast-forward to today, this vintage piece of technology can sell for over $1,000. That factory-sealed original iPhone sold for an eye-popping $190,373 at auction.
A used model, in good condition, can even bring serious cash if it isn’t wrapped in plastic. These early models are considered iconic by Apple fans, so they’re desirable collectibles.
Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64 was the one that ruled supreme — “Super Mario 64” and “GoldenEye 007” were the games if you grew up in the late ’90s. If you’ve got one of these stashed away, especially one of the limited edition colors, you could make several hundred bucks.
And specific game cartridges, such as “Donkey Kong Country,” are worth thousands. With the recent retro gaming surge, you’d be shocked at the value of your old N64.
Sony Walkman
Before iPods and MP3 players existed, the Sony Walkman was the most fantastic way to take your music on the road. But these devices have become something of a nostalgia in large part due to shows like “Stranger Things.” A good one may sell for over $1,300. A Walkman WM DC2, for example, can go for $3,500.
iPod Classic 1st Generation
Launched in 2001, the original iPod revolutionized how we listen to music. While most have moved on to smartphones, original iPods have become collectible. A factory-sealed first-gen iPod can go for thousands, while even used models command a few hundred dollars.
A first-generation iPod still sealed in its 2001 box was sold at auction last year for $29,000 in a private sale. Its legacy as a game changer in portable music has collectors keeping the demand high.
Apple Macintosh 128K
Late in 1984, Apple released the first personal computer, the Apple Macintosh 128K. These machines used to cost $2,495 when new, but they can now sell for $2,500 and up (depending on condition). The Macintosh 128K is often considered a piece of computing history.
Atari 2600
Some of you may remember being introduced to video games on the Atari 2600. Released in 1977, it had classics like “Space Invaders” and “Pac-Man.”
It’s worth noting that depending on the model and condition, your dust-encrusted Atari 2600 can cost from $50 to nearly $2,000, for instance, if you still have games such as “Air Raid” or “Red Sea Crossing.”
Polaroid Instant Cameras
Polaroid instant cameras were once the go-to camera for instant photos. The SX-70 from 1972 can sell for up to $600, and the more common Polaroid Spectra from the 1980s is worth about $200.
This resurgence of interest has catapulted these cameras into becoming some of the more sought-after collectibles of the instant photography renaissance.
Nintendo Game Boy
The Nintendo Game Boy was the handheld console that defined a generation of gamers. Prices on the originals have been very strong, running about $75, but if you have the box and the manuals, you can easily sell them for thousands.
Remember, even a new or mint-condition Game Boy might be worth $4,500 to hardcore collectors.
Commodore 64
The Commodore 64, launched in 1982, was a staple of early home computing. It’s old now, but retro game enthusiasts will still find it valuable.
A Commodore 64 can cost from $50 to $300, depending on its condition and whether you get the box with it. It is attractive to collectors because of its unique place in computing history.
Tamagotchi
Do you remember the digital pets that ruled the ’90s? Every kid back then had to have a Tamagotchi. Rare versions of the originals from 1996 can sell for thousands, but standard models from 1996 sell for around $200.
For collectors who want to relive a simpler time in tech, they’re worth their weight in gold.
BlackBerry Devices
BlackBerrys were the choice of smartphones before the iPhone. Yet some models have become collector’s items.
Not all of the devices are worth a fortune, but tech enthusiasts are examining early BlackBerry devices in good condition for their role in mobile communication history.
Motorola DynaTAC 8000X
Yes, a Motorola DynaTAC 8000X was the first commercial cell phone, but it was also a definitive ’80s symbol. A used one can be worth a lot.
This bulky device is sought after by collectors who want and recognize this pioneering role in mobile technology.
Sony Discman
One of the first portable CD players was the Sony Discman, which helped us transition away from cassettes. Good-condition early models can be a pretty penny.
The Discman has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in popularity during the retro tech boom, making it a collectible item of interest to music lovers.
Vintage Boomboxes
Vintage boomboxes from brand names like JVC and Panasonic alone are collectible and iconic symbols of the ’80s. Portable music players vary by brand, model, and how good of shape they’re in, and these guys can be worth hundreds or even thousands.
As such, they are much prized by collectors and enthusiasts for their cultural significance.
Vintage Digital Cameras
Today’s digital photography evolved from early digital cameras from brands such as Apple, Kodak, and others. Collectors now want Vintage models.
These cameras are the essence of the dawn of the digital age and can be surprisingly valuable. If you’ve got an old digital camera lying around, now may be a good time to find out whether you can sell it.
