World’s largest video game collection sold for $750,250

A collection of more than 11,000 video games has been sold at auction for $750,250.

The collection, verified by the Guinness Book of World Records in December 2012 as the largest in the world, went up for auction earlier this month and bidding started at $1. In total, 56 bids were placed during the course of the auction.

Of the 11,000 games in the collection, none are duplicates and approximately a quarter of them are still factory sealed.

The collection’s former owner Michael Thomasson was able to bolster his collection through working at seven independent gaming stores during the 90s and operating Good Deal Games online since 1998. This not only gave him access to a wide range of games but also allowed him to pick the copies that were in the best condition. As a result, more than 8,300 of the games have their original box and manual.

Thomasson made the decision to sell his hoard to better meet other commitments in his life, although he does say that the sale does not mean that he is leaving the hobby behind.

’I simply have an immediate family and extended family that have needs that need to be addressed. While I do not wish to part with these games, I have responsibilities that I have made to others and this action is how I will help meet them,’ Thomasson wrote at Game Gavel. ’I’ve sold my collection many times in the past and still managed to capture Guinness’ attention, and it is entirely possible that I may again.’

Included in the collection are several complete and nearly complete sets for well known and more obscure consoles alike. The winning bid was also given a lifetime subscription to Retro Magazine.