A rare prototype cartridge of "Pokémon Red" ended its auction at Goldin on October 25. After 20 bids, the cartridge sold for $101,000, with the total cost including related fees reaching $123,220.
This cartridge lacks official product markings and outer packaging, with its internal components directly exposed. PSA authentication confirmed its prototype nature, but scans revealed no substantial differences in content compared to the officially released US version, only minor changes in the header data considered insignificant.
Due to a malfunction in the testing equipment, some data on the cartridge could not be read. Current assessments suggest that the game build saved on it is likely identical to the final release version, with no deleted assets, test files, or other development-stage content found so far.
No other instances using this specific development board have been recorded, making this cartridge a nearly unique piece of Pokémon history. However, it has not been confirmed whether it is the sole surviving example, nor has its initial discovery been explained. The value of this sale stems primarily from its prototype status, rarity, and collectible significance, rather than any confirmed unreleased game content.