Original iPhone Prototype Fetches $1,500 On eBay
A first-generation iPhone sold to the highest bidder on eBay for $1,499 (plus shipping). The seller describes the phone as an “engineering prototype” meant to test various features and hardware rather than to be used commercially.
The original operating system, still loaded on the phone, has tests for things like touch sensors, radios, display and battery, according to Apple Insider. Etchings on the back of the phone describe the device. It’s labelled “Ver 1.1.1” and lists signal bands like bluetooth and wifi.
Image via eBay
Most auctions of this nature are pulled from eBay before they end, presumably at Apple’s request. The seller even accounted for this, stating, “Any genuine offers are welcome, as Apple may close this auction at any time.” But the auction went to completion with 37 bids.
The phone is in near-mint condition but has no commercial worth, as the OS does not even have telephoning capabilities. Instead, the 2007 phone is a coveted collectors’ piece, and the seller estimates that only five exist today.
