Shares of Apple hit the $200 mark for the first time Wednesday, as investor confidence in the company continued rising near the end of what has been a strong year for the iPod and computer maker. Shares rose 15 cents to close at $198.95. They earlier peaked at $200. Apple shares have traded between $76.77 and $199.33 in the past year, rising steadily since January.

>> Strong Sales Push Apple Shares to $200 Milestone