How Much is the Queen’s Golden Wii Worth?
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The Queen’s Golden Wii, a custom-made, 24-karat gold-plated Nintendo Wii, initially created as a publicity stunt, isn’t about monetary worth in the traditional sense anymore. While it was listed on eBay for $300,000 in 2021 by its owner, Donny Fillerup, the actual value is far more subjective and determined by collector demand, historical significance, and its unique backstory. The console’s inherent worth is tied to its singular creation, royal connection (albeit rejected), and the fascinating tale of its journey from a marketing ploy to a highly sought-after collector’s item. While the $300,000 asking price indicates its perceived value, there is no definitive answer to the specific monetary value, and it is more about finding the correct buyer for this unique item.
The Story Behind the Golden Wii
A Royal Gift, Unaccepted
In 2009, the now-defunct video game company THQ crafted the 24-karat gold-plated Wii as part of a marketing campaign for their game, Big Family Games. The console, a stunning piece of craftsmanship, was intended as a gift for Queen Elizabeth II, who was known to enjoy playing the bowling game on a standard Wii owned by her grandson, Prince William. However, Buckingham Palace declined the gift due to security reasons, stating, “for security reasons, the Correspondence Team are unable to accept any unsolicited gifts which are sent to The Queen.”
Forgotten and Rediscovered
Following THQ’s bankruptcy in 2013, the golden Wii vanished from public view for several years. It resurfaced on eBay in 2021, when collector Donny Fillerup, who claimed to have acquired it from THQ, listed it for sale at a hefty price of $300,000. Fillerup, who described himself as “moving on with life,” sought to sell the console to finance new living arrangements. The auction, which generated over 700 bids, highlighted the intense interest in the unique piece of video game history.
A Collector’s Piece, Not Just a Game Console
The golden Wii isn’t valued as a typical used video game console. Its worth stems from several key factors:
- Uniqueness: It is a one-of-a-kind custom-made console.
- Royal Connection: Though rejected, its association with the British Royal Family adds to its mystique and allure.
- Rarity: The console is exceptionally rare, with no other units like it.
- Historical Significance: It represents a unique moment in gaming history and marketing strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Did the Queen ever actually use the gold Wii?
No, the Queen never used the golden Wii. Buckingham Palace rejected the gift for security reasons.
2. How was the golden Wii made?
The console was specially designed and plated with 24-karat gold. It was crafted by THQ as part of a marketing campaign.
3. How much was the original asking price for the Golden Wii when it was sold?
When Donny Fillerup listed the Wii on eBay in 2021, the asking price was $300,000.
4. Who is Donny Fillerup, and how did he get the Golden Wii?
Donny Fillerup is a collector who acquired the golden Wii after THQ went bankrupt. He claimed to have purchased it directly from THQ with accompanying documentation.
5. How many bids did the Golden Wii auction receive on eBay?
The eBay auction for the Golden Wii received over 700 bids.
6. Is the Golden Wii the most expensive Wii ever made?
No, the Nintendo Wii Supreme is known as the most expensive Wii ever made. There are only three of them, costing $497,300 each. They are made of solid 22-carat gold and take six months to produce.
7. How does the Golden Wii compare to a regular Wii in terms of value?
The standard Wii console has declined significantly in value and typically sells for $30-$50, especially the original 001 model. The Golden Wii is vastly more valuable due to its uniqueness, gold plating, and unique history.
8. How many units of the Red Wii were made, and are they rare?
The Red Wii is not considered super rare, and was released for the holiday season of 2010. The Japanese version which included a pre-installed copy of Super Mario Bros 1 is considered more collectible.
9. What is the most expensive thing the Queen owned?
The Nizam of Hyderabad necklace, valued at approximately AU$122 million (£66 million), is considered the most expensive piece of jewelry in the royal family’s collection and was owned by Queen Elizabeth II.
10. Is Queen Elizabeth’s crown made of solid gold, and how much is it worth?
Queen Elizabeth’s crown is not made of solid gold. It is crafted from giltwood covered in gold leaf, and jewelry experts estimate its value between $3.4 billion to $5.7 billion.
11. How much was Queen Elizabeth II worth before her death?
Queen Elizabeth’s net worth was estimated to be between $480 million to $500 million before her death in 2021.
12. Are Queen Elizabeth II coins going up in value?
No, currently Queen Elizabeth coins are not going up in value. Coins that are valuable are generally Georgian coins, and any misprinted coins.
13. What are some of the rarest Queen Elizabeth II coins?
Some of the rarest Queen Elizabeth II coins include:
- A-Z 10p Coins (2019): especially letters Y, W, Z, and R
- UK EC Presidency 50p (1992/93)
- Kew Gardens 50p (2009)
14. When was the Nintendo Wii most popular?
The Nintendo Wii was most popular in 2009, when about 26 million units were sold.
15. Is it true that all Wii’s will self destruct in 2023?
No, this is a false rumor stemming from a meme. Nintendo did not announce any such thing.
Conclusion
The Queen’s Golden Wii’s value is not about its functional capacity as a video game console. It is an artefact, a piece of history, and a unique collector’s item. While it was listed for $300,000 in 2021, its real worth lies in its story, its rarity, and its royal connection. Its value is therefore subjective, and any future sale of the Golden Wii will likely depend heavily on finding the right buyer willing to pay a premium for such a uniquely significant piece of gaming history. The golden console is not just a gaming device, but a symbol of a unique moment in both gaming and marketing history.