Sealed First-Generation iPod Smashes Auction Record—Hits $ USD 40,264

An original first-generation iPod, still sealed and never opened, achieved a staggering $40,264 at auction via RR Auction last month—equivalent to approximately 1.3 million Thai baht, including a 25% buyer’s premium. This shatters the previous record of $29,000 (around ฿939,000) set in 2023.

Why It Matters

Introduced by Steve Jobs in October 2001, the iPod helped rescue Apple’s fortunes during its rocky financial period in the late 1990s. Launched with the marketing promise of “1,000 songs in your pocket,” the device featured innovations like a scroll wheel, LCD screen, 10-hour battery life, and broad format support (MP3, WAV, AIFF), plus seamless sync with iTunes on Mac.

Collector’s Gold

The auctioned item included a complete, factory-sealed original iPod, bundled with Apple Earphones, FireWire cable, and power adapter—all intact. That pristine condition, combined with its iconic status, made it extraordinarily valuable to collectors.

Apple’s Enduring Legacy

Also featured in the auction was an unopened 4 GB first-gen iPhone, fetching $81,989 (around ฿2.66 million). Though not a record-breaker for iPhones, it still dramatically surpassed its original retail price of $499 in 2007—highlighting the lasting collectible appeal of Apple devices.

Final Thought

This sale reminds us that certain pieces of tech aren’t valued merely for their function—but for the story they carry. A sealed first-gen iPod isn’t just a relic—it’s a time capsule, a symbol of Apple’s reinvention, and a treasure for enthusiasts. As innovation marches on, items like these become more than gadgets—they become icons.