This Rare 'Original' Apple iPhone Was Just Sold For Over Rs 1 Crore: Here's Why

Apple iPhones are known for holding value, especially in the resale market. Not only do even the old models fetch owners good money compared to most Android counterparts, they also are said to last longer and typically feature long software support that lasts at least a decade. But what if we told you that an original iPhone recently sold for an outrageous $133,435 (about 1.1 crore Indian rupees)—which is roughly 266 times the original MRP of $499.

Yes, this sale happened during LCG Auctions’ Fall Auction, where the said iPhone, which is described as ‘Original 2007 Apple iPhone Factory Sealed w/ Apple Store Receipt (1st Release, 4GB),’ was listed as part of the ‘Platinum’ lot and had a starting bid of $20,000. A total of 17 bids were made for the device, but of course, the winning bid was $133,435.

Notably, this isn’t the most that a 4GB variant of the original iPhone (Model A1203) has sold for. LCG Auditions notes that the 4GB model “appears to have the potential of a ‘blue chip‘ collectible.” And not only is it ‘extremely rare,’ but earlier in the summer, one unit fetched a record price of $190,373.

“Our offering is identical to the recording breaking model sold in July,” the auction house notes.

It added, “it’s a first-release 4GB model in outstanding factory sealed condition. It was consigned by the original owner who purchased it at retail more than 16 years ago. Unlike previous models sold at auction, this one includes the original Apple Store receipt and bag. The details on the receipt are fully legible. As for the phone itself, it’s virtually flawless along the surface and edges, the factory seal is clean with correct seam details and tightness. Labels on the reverse are correctly pristine beneath the seal. Outstanding color and gloss. Brand new, never activated. Immaculate example, the finest we have handled!”

For those uninitiated, this original iPhone model was introduced by none other than Apple founder Steve Jobs himself. He unveiled the same on January 9, 2007. And as for the rarity of the 4GB model—it was discontinued shortly after being released as most customers preferred shelling out the extra $100 and buying the larger capacity 8GB model instead.