Gamers Can Buy The Queen's 24 Karat Gold Wii
If you fancy getting your hands on a one-of-a-kind collectable that's literally fit for a queen, you're in luck. A 24-karat gold Wii that was made for Queen Elizabeth II is now up for auction - if you feel like treating yourself.
As Kotaku reports, the console was originally made back in 2009 by video game company THQ as part of a publicity stunt. Sadly, despite attempts to get the console, controller, a copy of Big Family Games, sensor bar, and all necessary cables, to her Majesty - it never quite made it into her hands due to strict rules regarding gifts.
What Happened To The Golden Wii?
Click to enlargeFor a while, there wasn't much to report regarding the console. According to the official listing for the new auction, it was sent back to the office. Then, when THQ went bankrupt in 2012, it "fell off the radar, and nobody really knew what became of it."
In 2017, a collector who specialised in developer hardware managed to get his hands on it through a contact he had at THQ. The rest of the official listing explains: "Presented here is the ultimate Wii collectible, commissioned especially for Her Majesty the Queen herself for a (somewhat goofy, and ultimately unsuccessful) marketing ploy, 'The Golden Wii.'
"The console and controller are both plated in 24-karat gold. Both exhibit minor handling wear, with the controller displaying scattered chips to the gold plating. The bundle includes the console, one controller, a copy of BIG Family Games, sensor bar, and all necessary cables. The Wii will come with a Letter of Provenance from our consignor attesting to its history and authenticity. Don’t miss your opportunity to own this truly one-of-a-kind Nintendo collectible! (Crown Jewels not included.)"
How Much Is The Golden Wii?
Click to enlargeThe console did go up for auction on eBay in 2021, however, it was removed after 700 bids. According to Kotaku, the issue was regarding the value of an item when compared to a user's selling history. To be fair, the console was sitting on bids of over $300k at the time.
The current price is just $2,000, but given how we've seen Pokemon Cards and Mario games start to go for ridiculous sums, we don't imagine it'll be there for long. Bidding closes on May 22, so if you want to throw your crown into the ring, you've got plenty of time.