On a sunny afternoon on August 11th, 1994, 21-year-old Dan Kohn made history by selling the album “Ten Summoner’s Tales” by Sting for $12.48 plus shipping to a man in Philadelphia through his rudimentary website. This was a groundbreaking moment in e-commerce history, as Netscape had just developed and released the first web browser with built-in SSL encryption. This technological advancement enabled secure online transactions, making it possible to sell products online safely for the first time.
Little did Kohn know that his clunky website would pave the way for the sophisticated, seamless online shopping experiences we take for granted today. Despite the primitive technology of the time, this transaction marked the beginning of a new era in online shopping, proving that the Internet could be a viable marketplace for goods.
It’s astonishing to realize that most kids today have never even heard of Netscape, despite its pivotal role in shaping the internet. Life is strange—today, you can still buy that same CD brand new for around $11.98, while a used copy can be found for under two dollars. The evolution of technology and commerce over the years is truly remarkable. The vinyl LP today will set you back $35.00 or more, go figure.
Sadly, Dan Kohn passed away from complications related to colon cancer in New York City on November 1, 2020, at the age of 47. Kohn’s legacy lives on through his pioneering work in e-commerce. His early efforts in online sales not only demonstrated the potential of the Internet as a commercial platform but also laid the groundwork for the vast, digital marketplaces we rely on today. Kohn’s contribution to the digital world remains a significant milestone in the history of technology.