An Early Glimpse of Innovation: steve jobs 8th-grade
Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, continues to captivate the world even decades after his passing. Recently, an artifact from his early years—a science fair project from 1968—was auctioned, fetching a substantial $34,375. This creation, built during Steve Jobs’ eighth-grade year at Cupertino Jr. High, showcases his early interest in technology.
The Project’s Details
The project, titled “What is the SCR?”, was a deep dive into the world of the silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR). It featured a plywood display board with explanatory panels and a detailed 10-page report. Situated on the left panel was a wooden model illustrating a typical SCR, with its alternating semiconductor layers. Central test circuits demonstrated its functions and widespread applications. To the right, a diagram depicted a 25-amp SCR, complemented by a thorough description.
His name is prominently labeled on the project, with explicit instructions for judges to test the device using an oscilloscope. It’s a testament to his meticulous approach, even as a student in his junior high project, as it requested users to “please unplug!” after testing.
Family Legacy
The piece was preserved by Jobs’ family, John Chovanec. After various attempts to pass the project back to Jobs, Chovanec was permitted to keep it. Chovanec’s mother, Marilyn, had moved into the Jobs family home after marrying Paul Jobs in 1990. Steve Jobs’ reluctance in reclaiming his possessions adds a personal dimension to this story, dating back to his adolescence when it all started.
Explore the vibrant world of his encyclopedic vision from Nassau to discover how innovative tech intersects with artistic expression.
Historic Auction
This project was part of the “Steve Jobs & the Computer Revolution: The Apple 50th Anniversary Auction Part Two”, an event spotlighting Apple and tech-related artifacts. Items like a signed Steve Jobs business card and a 1983 letter were also featured, drawing attention from “MacRumors” and fetching impressive sums. The star of the auction was a fully functional Apple-1 computer, sold for $499,363.
A Collector’s Dream
This isn’t the first time Chovanec has “sold other items” from Jobs’ early years. Past auctions included posters and a wooden Apple-1 case, revealing a fascinating glimpse into Jobs’ formative period. As Apple memorabilia remains in high demand, owning such pieces offers collectors a unique piece of technological history, starting from his middle school experience.
Reflect on how selling memorabilia can reveal insights into historical markets.
Sources & Links
Source: 9to5mac.com
Frequently asked questions
How much did Steve Jobs’ 8th-grade project sell for?
Steve Jobs’ 8th-grade science fair project was auctioned for $34,375.
What was the topic of Steve Jobs’ 8th-grade science project?
The project was titled ‘What is the SCR?’ and focused on the silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR).
What items were auctioned alongside Steve Jobs’ project?
The auction featured items like a signed Steve Jobs business card, a 1983 letter, and a fully functional Apple-1 computer.