American LCG Auctions, a specialist in rare toys, gadgets, and other collectible items for enthusiasts, once saw the original 2007 iPhone command an astonishing price at auction — a record high of $158,644. This figure has been cited in reports that translate the story for Chinese readers, including a version shared by MyDrivers. The bidding journey began with a modest opening of $10,000, roughly equivalent to 906,000 rubles at the time.
The remarkable value of the unopened first-generation iPhone stems from its scarcity. The device in question features 4 GB of internal storage rather than 8 GB. According to Mark Montero, founder of LCG Auctions, the 4 GB models are about 20% rarer at auction than their 8 GB counterparts, a factor that can significantly influence final prices.
Market analysis, including coverage from MyDrivers, explains that Apple discontinued the 4 GB version relatively quickly after its release. The decision was driven by consumer preference for the larger 8 GB option, which led to far fewer 4 GB units remaining available to collectors years later. This shift in supply helps explain why the early 4 GB iPhones fetch premium prices at specific auctions, especially when they remain unopened or in pristine condition.
Additional observations highlighted by MyDrivers discuss how the condition and packaging of early iPhone models influence their collectible status. In some cases, smartphones that were not opened or have missing packaging still carry substantial value at auction, provided they are well-documented, authentic, and preserved. The unique combination of rarity, historical significance, and the nostalgia attached to Apple’s first mobile device continues to attract buyers who are willing to pay a premium for a piece of tech history.
In the broader context of electronics markets, it is noted that a sizable portion of smartphones offered in secondary markets can be counterfeit or misrepresented. Experts advise collectors to verify provenance, inspect packaging, and confirm model specifications before bidding. For enthusiasts seeking verification, reputable auction houses and established grading services often provide documentation that helps differentiate authentic items from fakes, a distinction that matters greatly when high auction values are at stake. These safeguards are essential for maintaining trust in high-value vintage tech auctions and ensuring collectors are confident in their purchases. This cautionary guidance has been echoed across various outlets reporting on early iPhone auctions, including analyses attributed to MyDrivers as a reference point for historical pricing trends. (Source: MyDrivers)