Valuing Old iPhones and iPods as Collectibles: Worth or Waste?

Do Old iPhones and iPods Have Any Collectible Value?

For many individuals who have accumulated a variety of older technology devices, the question might arise: do these items still hold any value as collectibles? In my experience, especially in my country, the answer is often a resounding no.

Consider my iPhone 3G; even in good condition, it's value can be quite limited. I recently found myself in a situation where the home button had broken. Rather than seeking a replacement, I opted to refurbish the device. Despite the fact that the home button was no longer functional, I was able to complete my collection and refurbish the device. When I decided to sell it last year, I ended up getting what I consider an ugly price. The unit simply didn't have the value to make a worthwhile sale.

iPhone 4S: A Species with Limited Success

My iPhone 4S, on the other hand, remains in good condition and continues to function well even with versatile iOS 8. However, when I've offered this item for sale online, the most I have managed to collect is a mere best offer of 60. It's a stark reminder that even a device in perfect condition might not hold the value one once thought.

Memory and Investment: A Nostalgic Detour

Many individuals, myself included, have collected old phones simply because they couldn't afford those of the latest generation when they were young. For collection purposes, particularly those nostalgic for the youthful memories associated with these devices, there can still be a sense of value. However, it is important to note that these collections do not typically serve as financial investments.

Special Editions and Rare Finds

Still, not all old models are treated equally in the world of collectibles. For instance, I own a Motorola L7 that works well but suffers from worn-out rubber components. Additionally, I have several other retro devices such as a Mint condition Nokia E7, BlackBerry Storm 2, Nokia 6680, Nokia 6600, and the BlackBerry Z10. Also, a brand new old stock Motorola L7 that works splendidly but has some minimal wear. Despite having some items that are rather old, it's surprising to note how different the market attitudes are. Recently, a friend of mine expressed interest in one of these items but was only willing to pay a fraction of the current Xiaomi entry-level phone price.

The value of these collectibles can vary greatly based on condition, rarity, and demand. For those collecting collectibles for the enjoyment of reminiscing and preserving the past of technology, the investment might be more emotional than financial. It is a journey through nostalgia, and while some might find it valuable, for others, it might simply be a reminder of bygone technological solutions that don't hold much financial weight in today's market.