If you were lucky enough to grow up in the ’70s, you might remember some of the iconic electronics of the decade. While many of these items may seem outdated today, some have become valuable collector’s items. Here are 11 ‘70s electronics that could make you a pretty penny if you still have them lying around your home.
1. Atari 2600
The Atari 2600, released in 1977, was one of the first video game consoles to use game cartridges. It was a revolutionary concept at the time and paved the way for the modern gaming industry. Now, a vintage Atari 2600 in good condition can fetch hundreds of dollars. Even the individual game cartridges can be worth a fair amount, particularly if they are rare titles.
2. Sony Walkman
The Sony Walkman was a game-changer when it hit the market in 1979. It allowed people to listen to their favorite music on the go, a novelty at the time. Today, first-generation Walkmans in good condition can sell for around $500. Even non-working models can be worth over $100 to collectors.
3. Apple II
The Apple II, released in 1977, was one of the first successful personal computers. It was designed by Steve Wozniak and marketed by Steve Jobs, the co-founders of Apple. An original Apple II in working condition can sell for thousands of dollars today. Even non-working models can fetch a good price, particularly if they have the original packaging.
4. Pioneer Turntable
Pioneer was one of the leading manufacturers of turntables in the ’70s. Their high-quality sound and stylish designs have made them highly sought after by both audiophiles and collectors. A well-maintained Pioneer turntable from the ’70s can easily fetch hundreds of dollars today.
5. Polaroid SX-70 Camera
The Polaroid SX-70, released in 1972, was the first instant SLR camera and the first to use Polaroid’s instant film. It’s now a collector’s item and can sell for hundreds of dollars, particularly if it’s in good condition and comes with the original packaging and accessories.
6. Zenith Space Command TV Remote
The Zenith Space Command, introduced in the ’70s, was the first practical wireless TV remote. It used ultrasonic sound to change channels and adjust the volume. Today, these remotes are collector’s items and can sell for a decent amount, particularly if they’re in good condition and come with the original TV.
7. HP-35 Scientific Calculator
The HP-35, released in 1972, was the first handheld scientific calculator. It quickly became popular among engineers and scientists. A well-preserved HP-35 can fetch a good price today, particularly if it comes with the original packaging and manual.
8. Regency TR-1 Transistor Radio
The Regency TR-1, released in the ’70s, was the first commercially produced transistor radio. It marked a major shift in the way people listened to music. Today, a Regency TR-1 in good condition can fetch a decent price, particularly if it has the original packaging and accessories.
9. Magnavox Odyssey
The Magnavox Odyssey, released in 1972, was the first home video game console. It came with a variety of game cards that could be inserted to play different games. A working Magnavox Odyssey can sell for hundreds of dollars today, particularly if it includes all the original game cards and accessories.
10. Commodore PET Computer
The Commodore PET (Personal Electronic Transactor), released in 1977, was one of the first successful personal computers. It’s now a collector’s item and can fetch a good price, particularly if it’s in working condition and comes with the original monitor and keyboard.
11. Technics SL-1200 Turntable
The Technics SL-1200, released in the ’70s, is one of the most iconic turntables of all time. It’s renowned for its high-quality sound and durability. A well-maintained Technics SL-1200 can sell for hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars today.
