#29: The Sony Walkman

The Sony Walkman revolutionized personal audio. Initially retailing for $150 in 1979 (equivalent to approximately $613 today) at outlets like Radio Shack, Best Buy, and Walmart, it became an iconic device of the late 20th century, elevating Sony to a household name in portable music. Today, a mint-condition original can fetch up to $800, underscoring its lasting appeal and collectability.

Sony ceased Walkman production in 2010 after a successful run of 200 million units. The Walkman’s legacy lives on, extending its brand to encompass not just portable audio players but also CD players, phones, and other electronic gadgets. Vintage Walkmans, especially those from 1979 in unopened condition, are highly coveted, commanding prices as high as $800 among collectors.