Apple’s earliest founding documents are set to return to the auction stage, and experts believe the papers could sell for as much as $4 million. The three-page agreement, signed in 1976, marked the official creation of the Apple Computer Company. It represents one of the most significant artifacts in the history of modern technology.
The papers include the signatures of Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ron Wayne, the trio who launched what would become one of the world’s most valuable companies. According to auction notes, the documents outline each founder’s original ownership share: Jobs and Wozniak held 45% each, while Wayne held the remaining 10%.
Ron Wayne’s Famous Exit
Although the company was founded on April 1, 1976, the partnership didn’t last long. Wayne withdrew less than two weeks later on April 12. His decision is widely viewed as one of the most infamous missed opportunities in business history.
Apple’s valuation today sits in the trillions. Wayne’s original 10% stake would be worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Instead, he received only $800, followed later by an additional $1,500 payout. Despite the dramatic contrast between what he earned and what he missed, Wayne has often said he has no regrets.
Set for a Major Auction Event
Christie’s will include the documents in its “We the People: America at 250” auction, scheduled for January 23, 2026. The estimated price range sits between $2 million and $4 million, reflecting both the rarity of the papers and Apple’s global cultural influence.
This isn’t the first time the founding contract has gone under the hammer. Back in 2011, the same set sold for $1.5 million, demonstrating its enduring value among collectors and Apple enthusiasts alike. With Apple’s legacy only continuing to grow, auction specialists expect even stronger interest this time.
