A rare working Apple I computer known as the “Hatfield” model has sold for $1,148,200, including the buyer’s premium, at an October 14 auction at Bonhams. Two bidders competed for about 28 minutes, driving the final price above its pre-auction estimate of $500,000 to $800,000.
The computer’s name comes from its original owner, Fred Hatfield, who reportedly complained to Apple about the lack of software for the Apple I. The sale included a letter reply from Steve Jobs, dated 1978, in which Jobs offered an Apple II motherboard in exchange for the Apple I and additional payment; Hatfield kept the Apple I. The machine was later sold privately after needing repairs, then restored, with Steve Wozniak’s signature added to the motherboard before the auction.
Outlets also note that Apple I prototype boards have sold for more in previous years, and they reference earlier “Hatfield” auction results as a benchmark for how collector value has risen. Engadget and other reports describe the Wozniak-signed machine setting a record for a commercially sold Apple I. MacRumors adds context by comparing other recent high prices for related Apple I hardware and prototype boards.
