Physical Apple Rainbow Logos to Be Auctioned Off in June

Apple’s iconic “rainbow logo” signs, which date back to 1977, were used at the company’s Cupertino headquarters. But the physical logo signs will be auctioned off next month, according to DesignTaxi (via The Verge). The bidding will start from $10,000.

Two original exterior office building signs, approximately 46 x 49 x 1 1/2 inches and 33 1/2 x 36 x 6 inches, each with separate stem piece; the larger sign made of stiff foam with 6 vinyl applied colors; the smaller sign made of fiberglass backed with metal, vinyl applied colors; edgewear to both signs, some colors with slight pealing at transitions, larger sign with one color showing significant craquelure, both with stray marks and outdoor wear.

Provenance: Removed from company headquarters in 1997 and given to a longtime Apple employee.

Designed by graphic artist Rob Janoff, the logos were used between 1977 and 1998. According to Janoff’s website, the Apple logo was developed based on his examination of physical cross-sections of real apples. The multi-coloured logo was approved by Steve jobs and was part of every Apple product through the Newton PDA and Apple II. After 1998, the multi-coloured logo was changed to the monochrome version, followed by the aqua version (until 2007). Since 2007, Apple has used the Chrome version of the logo, signed by the same Rob Janoff.