September 16th, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of when MOS Technology unveiled the MCS6501 microprocessor, MCS6502 microprocessor, and MCS6530 ROM-RAM-I/O-Timer chips at 24th Annual Western Electronic Show and Convention (WESCON) in San Francisco, CA. WDC would like to take a moment to celebrate this milestone and share a few of the many stories behind this technology dear to so many of us.

If you are not familiar with the Team6502.org website, take this chance to explore the vast collection of documents and be sure to watch the short video about the team that changed the world.

Bill has had several great conversations with Stephen Edwards at VCF East (2020 video and 2021 video) and Kansas Fest 2022 (video) covering the early days of the 6502, WDC, etc.

The IEEE has included the MOS 6502 in their Chip Hall of Fame, published a fun Q&A with Bill, and are preparing to launch their Microchips That Shook the World exhibit that features numerous 65xx devices and derivatives.

The 6502 and 65xx variations have been used in billions and billions of devices since 1975; a few of these are mentioned here. The 6502 has been envisioned in many forms. From CMOS chips still available from WDC and it’s distributors, licensed IP in ASIC/SoC/etc, FPGA Microcontrollers, 6502s on plastic, and even the large scale MOnSter 6502.

We love to see all the creativity and love from the 6502 community that continues to this day. From general community learning and sharing (MUCH LOVE TO 6502.org!!), awesome retro computers from Foenix Retro Systems, Commander X16, the return of Commodore, and even a 6502 Song, the 6502 continues to find its way into peoples homes, labs and hearts. To everyone that has ever used 6502, we thank you for being on this magical journey with us. Here’s to many more adventures!