Two more NES prototypes hit online auctions

In the wake of the prototype cartridge of The Legend of Zelda selling for a record $55,000 comes two more eBay listings for rare production cartridges for the Nintendo Entertainment System.

Both items are listed by Mark Nolan, a noted prototype collector of video games from this time period.

The first cartridge is a sample copy of the pack-in cartridge that came with the NES Power Set containing Super Mario Bros., Duck Hunt and World Class Track Meet, a game designed for use with the Power Pad, an early example of a video game motion controller. The opening bid sees a “Buy It Now” price tag of $200,000 with the option to make an offer.

The other cartridge is graded and comes with a certificate of authenticity. It is listed as a prototype version of a cartridge titled Arcadia VI, a multi-game cart. A page on website Unseen64.netshows more about this prototype and confirms the seller as co-owner of the only known example. The “Buy It Now” price for this item is currently $100,000, also with the option to make an offer.

“Just incredible to suddenly see such a treasure trove of rarities start coming out onto the market in such a big way,” said Nintendo collectibles expert Kelly R. Flewin of Winnipeg, Manitoba. “People are going to look double time when going to a flea market or garage sale in hopes they luck out with a treasure like that.”

Both auctions are listed to close early next week unless the “Buy It Now” prices are met or offers made on the items are accepted by the seller.

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