15 Vintage Electronics Worth a Small Fortune Today

By

Andreas Jones

Hey! I’m Andreas Jones and I am the founder of KindaFrugal.com. I’m passionate about all things personal finance, side hustles, making extra money, and lifestyle businesses. I have been featured in major publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur On Fire, Lifehack.org, Influencive and Goalcast.

| Published on September 1, 2024

15 Vintage Electronics Worth a Small Fortune Today

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Sometimes, instead of throwing an old gadget away, it gets stored in the attic or basement, especially if it holds some sentimental value. But did you know some vintage electronics might be worth a small fortune today?

Vintage technology has become increasingly popular. So, check the attic, basement, and other storage areas to see what you might have lying around.

To help you know what to look for when cleaning out, we’ve created a list of 15 vintage electronics that may be worth a fortune. If you find them, get them appraised and see if they are not worth more than you thought. You know what they say: one person’s junk is another’s treasure.

Happy hunting!

Vintage Electronics: Original Apple iPod

Original Apple iPod
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The gadget that helped revolutionize the music industry. An original model Apple iPod in pristine condition can sell for up to $20,000. Even well-used models are selling for $500 or more.

Nintendo Game Boy

Nintendo Game Boy
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The original handheld gaming device in the Nintendo range, the original Nintendo Game Boy, sold for $89.99 in 1989. An unused device with original packaging can sell for around $5,000.

Original Apple iPhone

Original Apple iPhone
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The original iPhone sold for $499-$599, depending on the amount of storage space. Today, this old smartphone can fetch up to $1,000 or more, depending on its condition.

Sony Walkman

Sony Walkman
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Popular before the iPod and Zune, the Sony Walkman became a pop culture symbol during the 80s and 90s. Vintage models today, especially those in good condition, can sell for up to $2,500.

Rotary Phones

Rotary Phones
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While they may seem useless today, old rotary phones are becoming highly collectible. People love them for their simplicity and nostalgia and often collect them for decoration. Some models can sell for around $200, depending on style and condition.

Atari 2600

Atari 2600
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Launched in 1977, the Atari video game system brought the arcade to the living room. Collectors today will pay anywhere from $50 to $2,000 for consoles in better condition, and a cartridge or two fetches higher prices.

Polaroid Instant Camera

Polaroid Instant Camera
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Polaroid cameras are still around today, with modern features like digital options and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the popularity of modern instant cameras has also increased the collectability of original Polaroid cameras, which can sell for around $200 in good condition.

Commodore 64

Commodore 64
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One of the most popular home computers of its time, the Commodore 64, was popular for home office use and gaming. Because the Commodore 64 impacted the home computing scene, units in good condition can sell for up to $700.

Sony Trinitron TV

Sony Trinitron TV
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Popular among retro gamers, the Sony Trinitron TV was one of the first color TVs renowned for its high-quality picture. Today, a Sony Trinitron in good condition can sell for up to $500.

First Edition Tamagotchi

First Edition Tamagotchi

These digital pets were popular among children and adults in the late 90s. Today, these egg-shaped keychains are popular among collectors, and rare, unused, or original editions can sell for up to $2,000.

Texas Instruments Speak & Spell

Texas Instruments Speak & Spell

A popular 80s and 90s educational toy, the Texas Instruments Speak & Spell is now worth anywhere from $50 to $300.

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
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Known for introducing famous game titles like Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda, the NES is loved for its impact on pop culture and the gaming world. Because of its nostalgic value, a console in good condition can fetch up to $150, more if it comes with some games.

Nokia 3310

Nokia 3310
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The Nokia 3310 was one of the bestselling mobile phones before smartphones became popular. It was known for its durability, user-friendly design, and popular games and features. Today, this iconic mobile phone is worth about $50 and is in good condition.

Nintendo 64

Nintendo 64
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An original Nintendo 64 sells for about $100 or more. But, if you have one of the limited-edition colors or anything other than gray or black, it could be worth much more. As with any gaming system, the value increases if you have some games to sell with it.

Colecovision

Colecovision
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This home gaming system was only on the market for about three years, so if you have one and some gaming cartridges, you could make up to $800 selling it to a gaming collector.

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Two woman on ground with laptop
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