Intel pentium 1994 (or 92/93?)mechanical sample

[Fortune]

Got this a long time ago from a high school physics professor who I was helping clean out their Classroom closet. I think it’s a really nice memento and I’m wondering what you guys think about it. I think it’s in really good condition. I’d love to learn something new about it if anyone has some cool trivia!

Don’t think I’d ever sell it but how much do rare chips like this go for?

[Katmai500]

I suspect this came from an Intel Journey Inside the Computer educational kit. Intel distributed them to schools in the 90's. There were three editions, with the first being based around the 80486, the second around the Pentium, and the third around the Pentium MMX. This mech sample probably came from a second edition kit.

https://www.chipsetc.com/intel-journey-inside-educational-chip-kits.html

Regarding value, that can vary. I'd say around $100, but you might get more if you found the right buyer.

[bccwchan]

Very nice MS cpu

[zukote1991]

That’s a fantastic find! Mechanical samples from the early '90s, especially Pentium-era ones, are quite collectible among vintage CPU enthusiasts. Yours looks to be in great shape too, which definitely adds value. While these aren’t as common as production chips, value can vary—typically anywhere from $50 to over $150 depending on the buyer and condition. It’s more of a historical piece than an investment, but definitely a cool item to hold on to. Thanks for sharing!