How much are original Nintendo's worth?
Based on extensive research into current market conditions, original NES systems tend to range from $40 to $1000+ in value, while original SNES systems range from $50 to $600+ depending on factors like condition, completeness and rarity. Mint, complete in box (CIB) versions of both systems can potentially sell for thousands at auction. Read on for more detailed estimates.
Background and History
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) stand as iconic consoles in video game history. Let‘s examine what gives these vintage systems such lasting collector‘s appeal.
Nintendo Entertainment System
Released in 1985 in North America, the NES revitalized the video game market after the "crash" of 1983. Nintendo sold over 61 million NES units worldwide and introduced classic franchises like Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid and more.
For many Generation X gamers, the NES marked their initiation into home console gaming – forming cherished childhood memories. Due to limited production runs, well-preserved NES consoles and games in original packaging remain highly coveted today.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Succeeding the highly popular NES, the SNES debuted in 1991 and sold over 49 million units globally. The 16-bit console represented a major leap in graphics and gameplay, wowing gamers with hits like Super Mario World, F-Zero, and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.
With its vast and acclaimed game library, the SNES solidified Nintendo‘s dominance in the 16-bit era. Nostalgia for SNES classics keeps interest strong among retro collectors today.
Factors That Determine Value
Several key factors significantly influence the value and pricing of original NES and SNES hardware and games:
- Condition – Cosmetic appearance and playability. Systems in "like new" condition bring top dollar.
- Completeness – Having all original components and packaging substantially raises value for collectors.
- Rarity – Uncommon games and niche accessories command higher prices.
- Revisions – Certain hardware revisions or game variants are more sought after.
- Authenticity – Verifying original components vs. reproductions is crucial.
We‘ll examine how each factor impacts pricing in more detail below.
Loose NES Systems
Let‘s break down the current fair market values for loose NES console units based on their condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
| Complete, Excellent | $100 – $150 |
| Good Shape, Minor Wear | $60 – $100 |
| Moderate Wear, Fading | $30 – $60 |
| Major Damage But Working | $20 – $40 |
NES consoles in complete, working condition with minimal wear can fetch over $100. Units with more noticeable scratches or fading tend to fall in the $30 to $60 range.
According to 2022 sales data from PriceCharting, the average selling price for loose NES consoles is $69. Having the original "dogbone" controllers, some wiring, and plastic bags can add $10-20 in value.
Loose SNES Systems
For loose SNES consoles, their condition drives these price ranges:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
| Complete, Near Mint | $120 – $175 |
| Good, Minor Fading | $80 – $120 |
| Moderate Wear | $50 – $80 |
| Major Damage | $30 – $50 |
SNES consoles in like new shape can sell for over $120, while more well loved units tend to go for $50-80. Boxed SNES sets with manuals but no cables or controllers may sell for around $20 more.
According to PriceCharting‘s 2022 estimates, the average selling price for a loose SNES is $77.50. SNES Junior models tend to be less desired and sell for 10-20% less than original editions.
Complete in Box (CIB) Systems
Having a complete NES or SNES set with all original packaging and paperwork substantially increases collector and resale value. Here‘s a breakdown:
Complete in Box NES Sets
| Condition | Estimated Value |
| Mint CIB | $600 – $1200+ |
| Light Shelf Wear CIB | $300 – $600 |
| Moderate Wear CIB | $150 – $400 |
A mint CIB NES set with pristine packaging and inserts can potentially exceed $1000. According to Wata Games‘ 2022 data, the average selling price for a CIB NES is $407.
Sealed, unopened "new old stock" NES sets are extraordinarily rare – only a handful have been authenticated. These can hammer over $10,000 at auction.
Complete in Box SNES Sets
For CIB SNES bundles condition determines these price levels:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
| Mint CIB | $400 – $800 |
| Light Wear CIB | $200 – $400 |
| Moderate Wear CIB | $100 – $250 |
Wata‘s sales data shows an average price of $369 for CIB SNES sets. Near-flawless CIB copies have exceeded $2000 at auction, while sealed units have sold for up to $10,000.
The completeness and quality of the original packaging and materials heavily impacts pricing for CIB specimens.Having the OEM styrofoam inserts, plastic bags, cardboard box in nice shape, and inserts like posters and manuals will maximize collector appeal.
Notable & Valuable Games
Beyond the consoles themselves, individual NES and SNES games can be incredibly valuable depending on their rarity and demand. Let‘s examine some of the heavy hitters.
High Value NES Games
These are some of the NES games that currently command the highest prices:
- Stadium Events – $10,000 – $38,000
- Nintendo World Championships 1990 Gold Edition – $10,000 – $100,000
- Bubble Bath Babes – $4,000 – $6,500
- Myriad 6-in-1 Game – $3,500 – $10,000
- Legend of Zelda First Release (REV-A) – $1,000 – $4,000
Stadium Events stands as one of the rarest licensed NES games released, with only about 200 copies produced initially. Any copy in good condition fetches at least four figures.
The ultra-rare Nintendo World Championships 1990 cartridges were made for a limited 1990 gaming competition, giving only 90 out there, making them highly prized today.
Unlicensed "adult" games like Bubble Bath Babes and early "multicart" releases ROMs with multiple games also attract high valuations from collectors.
High Value SNES Games
For the SNES, these games consistently achieve the highest auction prices:
- Super Turrican Director‘s Cut – $1,500 – $10,000
- Donkey Kong Country Competition Cartridge – $3,000 – $15,000
- Nintendo PowerFest ‘94 – $10,000 – $20,000+
- Mega Man X3 – $600 – $1,200
- Harvest Moon – $150 – $500
- Chrono Trigger – $150 – $350
As with the NES, limited competition carts like the Nintendo PowerFest ‘94 and Donkey Kong Country competition cartridges command huge premiums due to tiny production numbers.
Mega Man X3 was a later SNES release, with relatively limited copies. Popular titles like Chrono Trigger and Harvest Moon can also break $100+ when found sealed. Broadly, 2D platformers, JRPGs and late release titles tend to be most sought after.
Assessing Authenticity & Condition
When examining a prospective NES or SNES purchase, it‘s crucial to assess authenticity and condition factors that may affect value:
- Inspect for damage like yellowing, cracks, scuffs on the console and controllers.
- Do labels, logos, text look original? Or are there indications of fading or touch ups?
- Do serial numbers match on the components?
- Do buttons and connectors function properly?
- Are there signs of modifications or replacements?
Minor scuffs and slight discoloration is generally expected with older consoles. But heavy fading, damaged plastics, non-working buttons or connectors can negatively impact price.
Expert collectors recommend opening up the console to further validate board chips and internal components match the production runs. Take care not to damage the inspection stickers.third-party replacement shells and parts may inaccurately give the appearance of a better condition system.
Verifying authenticity takes trained eyes. Consider professional appraisal from trusted experts like Wata Games for exceptionally rare or high value items. This provides a detailed condition assessment and authoritative verdict on authenticity.
Selling Your Nintendo Rarities
For common NES and SNES games, you‘ll generally get fair market value selling to local retro game stores or through online marketplaces like eBay.
But for heavy hitters, more care is required. Auction houses like Heritage Auctions have auctioned vintage Nintendo games for record prices – but they take a sizable commission. Collector conventions can directly connect you with avid buyers.
Exercise patience selling high value gems like competition cartridges or sealed Stadium Events. Verify authenticity through an appraiser first. Then connect with die-hard Nintendo collectors to negotiate an equitable private sale.
The Market Moves Fast
Vintage Nintendo prices fluctuate continually based on factors like new discoveries, collector trends and certified grading. For example, sealed Super Mario Bros sold for $100,000 in early 2022 – shattering the previous record.
Similarly, graded game values have increased exponentially in recent years as collectors invest more in preservation and more players enter the market.
Pristine, "time capsule" Nintendo products in untouched condition continually reach new high water marks at auction. While common NES and SNES consoles have remained relatively steady in value.
As an original owner, your Nintendo collectibles may be worth far more than you imagined to passionate collectors and gamers. With the right expertise and care, you can turn childhood nostalgia into a highly valuable investment.