The ’80s Gadgets That Were Unwanted But Now Command Serious Money
When you envision legendary electronics, specific ’80s devices such as the Sony Walkman, Nintendo Entertainment System, and a variety of VCRs and boomboxes immediately come to mind. These products characterized daily life during that remarkable decade and continue to be revered for their nostalgia and utility. While collectors are ready to pay a premium for these treasured items, some lesser-known gadgets from the ’80s, once deemed “rubbish,” have also turned out to be quite valuable. These products, frequently ignored due to their outdated nature or initial lack of popularity, can now yield impressive amounts if discovered in attics, storage spaces, or thrift stores.
Atari 2600 Video Game Console
The Atari 2600, launched in 1977, was a groundbreaking entity in the gaming industry with its plug-and-play cartridges. Despite its early prominence, it was eclipsed by the Nintendo Entertainment System’s debut in 1985. Once regarded as playthings, these consoles were often thrown away. Nowadays, gaming aficionados value an average Atari 2600 at up to $60, while rare bundles and models can reach $500. The true gems are the games, with uncommon cartridges like “Red Sea Crossing” and “Air Raid” fetching thousands.
Sony Discman D-50 Compact Disc Player
After the triumph of the Walkman, Sony rolled out the D-50 portable CD player. Even though its audio quality surpassed that of cassettes, the D-50’s size and requirement for an external power source curtailed its popularity. Despite being succeeded by more streamlined versions, collectors currently shell out $100–$400 for this historic piece.
Polaroid OneStep Instant Camera
The Polaroid OneStep, unveiled in 1977, became a symbol of the ’80s for its ability to develop photos instantly. However, the emergence of digital photography in the ’90s caused instant cameras to fade. Presently, retro fans are willing to spend up to $150 to rekindle the magic of instant photography.
Sinclair ZX80 Home Computer
The Sinclair ZX80, introduced in 1980, was an economical home computer that welcomed many into the world of software programming. It was soon eclipsed by the Commodore 64 and Apple Macintosh 128K. Despite its obscurity, an original ZX80 can now command up to $800 at auction.
National Ambience RX-7200 Boombox
The RX-7200 boombox, featuring four speakers and exceptional build quality, was a premium model released exclusively in Japan. Its scarcity and craftsmanship make it highly desirable, with prices ranging from $1,000 to over $2,000.
These overlooked ’80s gadgets, previously unwanted, have transformed into valuable collectibles, showcasing that one individual’s trash can indeed become another’s treasure.