2,200 NABU Computers Stored 23 Years in a Barn Now Sold on eBay 2026

More than 2,200 NABU computers sat forgotten in a Massachusetts barn for 23 years before their owner, James Pellegrini, began selling them on eBay. The story of how these machines went from a failed business venture to a profitable eBay side hustle—and eventually to a dedicated online store—captures the unexpected value hiding in vintage tech.

Pellegrini, an engineer, originally bought the NABU computers with plans to build a telephone exchange system that never materialized. He asked his neighbor to store the machines in his barn, and there they remained until structural problems forced their removal. Instead of scrapping them, Pellegrini tested the market on eBay, starting at $20 per unit and eventually raising the price to $100 as demand grew.

From Failed Venture to eBay Success

The NABU computers were part of a Canadian company's attempt to create a low-cost home computer network in the 1980s. While the venture ultimately failed, the hardware itself retained appeal among collectors and retro computing enthusiasts. Pellegrini's initial eBay listings at $20 quickly attracted buyers, prompting him to increase prices.

He eventually sold enough units to generate over €45,000 in revenue—a remarkable return on what was essentially forgotten inventory. The sales continued for years, with Pellegrini shipping machines across the world to hobbyists eager to own a piece of computing history.

Why NABU Computers Attract Collectors

NABU computers are prized for their unique place in tech history. They were designed to connect to a central server via cable TV lines, offering software and games long before broadband internet became common. Their distinctive design and limited production run make them collectible today.

Many buyers are retro computing fans who enjoy restoring old hardware or using it to run vintage software. The NABU's Z80 processor and expandable architecture also appeal to tinkerers who modify the machines for modern uses.

The Shift from eBay to a Standalone Store

After more than a year of selling on eBay, Pellegrini stopped listing the NABU computers on the platform. While he declined to give a specific reason when contacted by German outlet Gamestar, the most plausible explanation is economic: avoiding eBay's seller fees.

By moving to his own online store, Pellegrini can keep more of each sale and build a direct relationship with his customers. He still has inventory remaining and claims the computers are in good condition and sellable.

What This Means for Vintage Tech Sellers

Pellegrini's story highlights the potential for profit in forgotten tech. Many businesses and individuals have old equipment sitting in storage that could be valuable to collectors. Platforms like eBay offer an easy way to test the market, but high fees can eat into profits as sales volume grows.

For those with large quantities of vintage hardware, transitioning to a standalone e-commerce site can be a smart move. It allows for better margins, more control over branding, and the ability to offer specialized support—something collectors often appreciate. Context on how this played out before sits in 2,200 NABU Computers Stored 23 Years in a Barn Now Sold on eBay.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Resellers

• Start small and test demand: Pellegrini began with low prices on eBay to gauge interest before raising them.
• Don't overlook forgotten inventory: Old tech can have surprising value to collectors.
• Consider fees when scaling: High sales volumes may justify moving to your own store.
• Preserve condition: Stored properly, vintage electronics can remain sellable for decades.
• Know your audience: Retro computing enthusiasts are passionate and willing to pay for rare items.

Comparison: Selling on eBay vs. Your Own Store

Pellegrini's move suggests that for sellers with substantial inventory, the benefits of a standalone store can outweigh the convenience of eBay. However, it requires investment in marketing and customer service. The background to this story is set out in Technology: latest articles. A related thread runs through OpenAI's GPT-6 Launch Sparks Chief Scientist Safety Warning.

What to Watch Next

As Pellegrini continues to sell off his stock, the remaining NABU computers will likely become scarcer, potentially driving prices up. Collectors should keep an eye on his store for availability. Meanwhile, the story serves as a reminder that one person's failed business can become another's treasure—sometimes decades later. Earlier coverage in Apple iPhone Duo Leak: Gurman Reveals Prices Before Keynote shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Apple iPhone Duo Foldable: Release Date, Price and Specs.

For those inspired to dig through their own storage, research is key. Identifying rare models and understanding their condition can turn forgotten boxes into significant returns. Anyone following the wider picture can start with iPhone 18 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Key Upgrades Compared. The same theme surfaces in Lidl's Budget AirTag Alternative: Tronic Trackers Under 5 Euros, which takes a different angle.