Classic video game consoles and cartridges have grown into valuable collector’s items over the years. Many nostalgic gamers and collectors are willing to pay big bucks to get their hands on these gems. Let’s explore some iconic consoles and cartridges that are now worth significant money, with values that might surprise you.
Atari 2600
The Atari 2600 helped define the home gaming era in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Its simple design and iconic joystick controller became a symbol of gaming’s early days. Today, an Atari 2600 in good condition can be worth around $1,000 to $2,500, especially if it includes rare game cartridges like Air Raid. Complete, boxed versions can drive the price even higher in collector circles.
Neo Geo AES
The Neo Geo AES is a true collector’s dream, known for bringing arcade-quality gaming into homes in the early ’90s. Its powerful hardware and massive cartridges made it a premium console. Original AES consoles can sell for anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000, with rare games like Metal Slug fetching even higher prices. Its value largely depends on the condition and whether it includes all original accessories.
Sega Genesis
The Sega Genesis, also known as the Mega Drive, revolutionized the 16-bit gaming market. Its sleek black design and hit games like Sonic the Hedgehog make it highly desirable today. While a used console might only fetch around $100-$200, special edition models and sealed versions of popular games can increase its value significantly. Rare titles like Musha or a sealed version of Sonic can go for $500 or more.
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
The NES remains one of the most beloved gaming systems of all time. Its influence on the gaming world is unmatched, and its games are still sought after by collectors. Depending on the condition and packaging, an original NES can range from $150 to $500. Limited edition consoles and boxed versions of games can command even more, especially if it includes rare titles like Little Samson.
Super Mario Bros. (NES) – Sealed
A sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. for the NES is a holy grail among video game collectors. As one of the best-selling video games ever, its value skyrockets when kept in pristine condition. Sealed, graded copies have fetched up to $2 million at auction. Even non-graded, sealed copies can easily bring in $100,000 to $500,000 depending on condition and grading score.
Sony PlayStation 1
The Sony PlayStation 1 took the gaming world by storm with its introduction of 3D gaming. Today, a first-generation PS1 in good condition can range from $50 to $150. However, special edition consoles and rare game titles, like Suikoden II or Lunar: Silver Star Story, can push the price higher. Complete boxed consoles with original controllers and accessories can fetch up to $500.
TurboGrafx-16
The TurboGrafx-16 may not have been a commercial success during its initial release, but it has become a rare and valuable find today. It was ahead of its time with its graphics and gaming library. A console in good condition typically sells for $300 to $700, and rare games like Magical Chase can be worth upwards of $5,000. Collectors cherish this console due to its rarity in the U.S. market.
Sega Saturn
The Sega Saturn, though not as commercially successful as its competitors, has become a prized item for collectors. Its advanced hardware made it difficult to program for, which limited its game library, but rare titles have driven its value up. A working Sega Saturn in good condition can sell for around $300 to $600. Special edition consoles and complete sets with rare games like Panzer Dragoon Saga can reach over $1,000.
The Legend of Zelda (NES) – Sealed
A sealed copy of The Legend of Zelda for the NES is a treasure among collectors. Released in 1986, this game became one of the most beloved franchises in history. Sealed, graded copies of this game can fetch anywhere between $100,000 and $870,000, depending on the condition. It’s one of those titles that skyrockets in value when kept in mint, sealed condition.
Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64 brought 3D gaming to the masses and is still cherished by gamers today. While a loose console might go for $150 to $300, complete boxed versions can easily exceed $500. Special edition models like the Pikachu edition or limited-run colors are particularly valuable. Rare games, like Conker’s Bad Fur Day or a sealed copy of Super Mario 64, can also significantly raise its overall worth.
Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation 1) – Black Label
Final Fantasy VII is considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time, and its black label version for the PlayStation 1 is highly sought after. A complete, black label version in good condition can sell for $100 to $250, depending on its state. Sealed copies can reach much higher, with some selling for over $500. It’s a must-have for any PlayStation collector.
Sega Dreamcast
The Sega Dreamcast may have had a short lifespan, but its impact on gaming was huge. Today, collectors value this console highly. A complete Sega Dreamcast in good condition typically sells for $200 to $400. Special edition versions, like the Sega Sports Dreamcast, can fetch even more. Rare titles, such as Shenmue or Marvel vs. Capcom 2, also add to its value.
Pokemon Red & Blue (Game Boy) – Sealed
Sealed copies of Pokemon Red & Blue are a goldmine for collectors. These classic Game Boy titles launched the worldwide Pokémon phenomenon. Sealed copies, especially in pristine condition, can easily fetch $2,000 to $5,000 at auction. Their rarity and the nostalgic value make them some of the most valuable Game Boy cartridges available.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
The SNES is a beloved console known for its incredible library of games. A basic, working SNES console is valued at around $150 to $300. However, boxed or limited edition versions, especially complete in their original packaging, can command $500 or more. Rare games like EarthBound or a sealed copy of Super Mario World significantly boost its worth in collector markets.
Chrono Trigger (SNES) – Sealed
A sealed copy of Chrono Trigger for the SNES is a true gem in the world of video game collecting. As one of the most beloved RPGs of all time, its value has soared in recent years. A sealed, graded copy can sell for as much as $2,500 to $3,500. Its combination of rarity and nostalgia makes it highly sought after by both fans and collectors alike.
ColecoVision
The ColecoVision was a popular console in the early 1980s, known for bringing arcade-quality games to home consoles. Its value has grown significantly due to its rarity and historical importance. A well-preserved ColecoVision console can fetch between $200 to $500, depending on its condition and whether it comes with original accessories and games like Donkey Kong.
Pikachu Nintendo 64
The Pikachu edition of the Nintendo 64 has become a collector’s favorite. This limited edition console features a giant Pikachu on the case, making it a standout piece for Pokémon fans. Depending on condition and whether it’s boxed, the Pikachu N64 can sell for $300 to $500. Sealed or complete versions, especially with original packaging, fetch even higher prices.
Pikmin (GameCube) – Sealed
A sealed copy of Pikmin for the GameCube is a valuable item for collectors. This game, with its unique strategy and adorable characters, was a hit when it launched. A sealed copy in pristine condition can sell for $150 to $300. Its growing popularity among collectors has continued to push up its value, especially for well-preserved versions.
Sega Master System
The Sega Master System was Sega’s answer to the NES and is now a valuable collector’s console. A complete, boxed Master System in good condition can sell for $200 to $400. Games like Phantasy Star or Alex Kidd in Miracle World add value, especially if they come in their original packaging. Rare versions or limited runs of the console can fetch even more.
GoldenEye 007 (Nintendo 64) – Sealed
A sealed copy of GoldenEye 007 for the Nintendo 64 is a top-tier collectible. This iconic first-person shooter changed multiplayer gaming and remains a beloved title. A sealed copy in mint condition can sell for $1,000 to $3,000. The game’s nostalgic value and importance in gaming history have driven its price higher over the years.
Pokemon Stadium (Nintendo 64) – Sealed
Pokemon Stadium for the Nintendo 64, especially in a sealed, graded condition, is a highly sought-after item. This game let players battle their Pokémon in 3D for the first time, making it a fan favorite. Sealed copies can sell for $500 to $2,000, depending on the condition and grading. The combination of Pokémon fandom and gaming nostalgia keeps driving up its value.
Vectrex
The Vectrex is one of the most unique consoles ever made, with its built-in screen and vector-based graphics. It has become a rare find among collectors. A well-maintained Vectrex console, complete with its original accessories, can sell for $300 to $1,000. Special games or complete sets in their original packaging further increase its value, making it a prized piece in retro gaming collections.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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