Do I need a prototype to sell a patent?

Question

I just found out that it will cost 50,000 dollars to create a working prototype for my patent. Do I even need a prototype? Can I sell the idea without one?

Answer 1

You can sell ANYTHING... provided you have a buyer.

Answer 2

You can sell the idea, but you can't get a patent without the prototype.  If you sell the idea, someone else will own it.