75 minute read
Notables
Declaration of Independence
Boldly signed 1787 bankruptcy document, issued during the Constitutional Convention
91. Benjamin Franklin Document Signed. Manuscript DS, signed “B. Franklin Presid’t,” one page, 7.25 x 8.5, June 26, 1787. Official bankruptcy document headed, “In the matter of John Witmer,” in part: “Henry Witmer of Lampeter Township Lancastr County being conscientiously scrupulous of taking an Oath solemnly affirms that John Witmer late of the City of Philadelphia Dealer and Chapman is justly and truly indebted to this Deponent in the Sum of three hundred pounds and upwards for money lent and money laid out and expended…he further says that the said John is become a Bankrupt within the true intent and meaning of some or one of the Statutes against Bankrupts as he hath been informed and believes.” Signed at the conclusion by the deponent, Henry Witmer, and boldly signed by Benjamin Franklin as president of Pennsylvania. Blindstamped with a seal in the lower right. In fine condition, with trimmed edges.
The Constitutional Convention was taking place in Philadelphia at the time Franklin signed this document, and on this June 26th date the framers made two key decisions about the organization of the Senate: establishing the term of office of six years, and deciding upon the source of compensation for its members. Franklin’s inclination was to have senators draw no salary, forcing the chamber to be comprised only of America’s wealthy elite—certainly free of any ‘Bankrupts’ like the subject of this document. Despite fairly broad support, Franklin’s proposal failed, and it was decided that senators would be paid out of the national treasury. An excellent document from this momentous period of American history boasting a choice example of Franklin’s signature. Starting Bid $1000
John Hancock commissions a veteran of Shays’ Rebellion as aide-de-camp to Maj. Gen. William Shepard
92. John Hancock Document Signed. Manuscript DS, signed “John Hancock,” one page, 12.5 x 7.75, August 1, 1789. As governor of Massachusetts, Hancock appoints Samuel Buffington as “Aid de Camp to Major General William Shepard, Commander of the fourth Division of the militia in this Commonwealth comprehending the County of Hampshire…with the rank of Major.” Boldly signed in the left margin by Governor John Hancock, and countersigned by Secretary John Avery, Jr. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains intact. Mounted, matted, and framed to an overall size of 24.25 x 17.5. In fine condition. Buffington was serving under Shepard during Shays’ Rebellion of 1786-87, in which they had to defend Springfield against a rebel militia. Buffington, commanding a company of light horse under Shepard’s command, directly confronted Shays during his march to the Springfield Armory. In the exchange, Buffington warned Shays that Shepard would defend the Arsenal by means of force. Shays continued to advance, and Shepard first fired warning shots over the heads of Shays’ men, followed by grape shot fired by two cannons. The rebel advance was halted when four Shaysites were killed and 20 were wounded. A typed transcript of Buffington’s deposition on the subject is included. Starting Bid $500
93. Francis Hopkinson and Nicholas Gilman
Document Signed. Revolutionary War-dated partly-printed DS, signed “F. Hopkinson” and “Nich. Gilman,” one page, 8 x 3.75, June 12, 1780. Desirable bill of exchange, in part: “At Thirty Days Sight of this Third Bill, First, Second, and Fourth not paid, pay to Elias Hasket Derby or Order, Thirty-six Dollars, in One Hundred and Eighty Livres Tournois, for Interest due on Money borrowed by the United States.” Signed at the conclusion by Hopkinson as treasurer of loans and countersigned by Nicholas Gilman as commissioner of the Continental Loan-Office of New Hampshire. Inlaid into a scrapbook page. In fine condition, with some light creasing and soiling. Hopkinson signed the Declaration of Independence as a delegate from New Jersey, while Gilman served in the Continental Army and signed the Constitution as a delegate from New Hampshire. Starting Bid $200
Independence from New York (1716-1778). Manuscript DS, signed “Phil. Livingston,” one page, 7.75 x 12.5, March 13, 1765. Accounting document headed “Sales of 48 pipes Madeira Wine Received from on board The Brig. Ranger Capt. Derby, for Acct: Mr. Richard Derby,” tallying up the payments of various buyers, amounting to a total of £2025. Boldly signed at the conclusion by Livingston. In very good to fine condition, with scattered stains, edge tears, and splitting to the folds. Starting Bid $200
Rare handwritten letter from ‘The Chancellor’ to John Armstrong, Jr.— “I would not change my situation with any emperor or King in Europe”
95. Robert R. Livingston Autograph Letter Signed.. ALS signed “Rob. R. Livingston,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 10.5, December 1, 1810. Handwritten letter to “Gen’l John Armstrong,” upon his return from his post as minister to France. In part: “I should have written to congratulate you on your safe return had I not been in daily expectation of seeing you here…I have not learned whether you intend to reside among us, as I much hope, or as I have heard intimated that you only intend to grant one scene of political warfare for another. Of the two Paris or Washington I think I should have preferred the first as more peaceable, & less turbulent. But you are young enough, & brave enough to face the storm, & I hope will be able to weather in either clime…from the candor of politics & party disputes there I would not change my situation with any emperor or King in Europe & I feel grateful to those who are willing to take the helm.” In very good to fine condition, with a small puncture to the first letter of the signature, and a bit of loss to one corner and to the integral address leaf. Starting Bid $200
A rare signature of Thomas Lynch, Jr.
96. Thomas Lynch, Jr. Signature. Exceedingly rare ink signature, “Lynch,” on an off-white 1.75 x .75 slip, expertly mounted to a display sheet with an affixed handwritten letter of provenance from noted collector and historian Lyman C. Draper, in full: “This ‘Lynch’ signature was discovered & obtained since the printing of the Essay on the Autographs of the Signers, clipped from Vol. IV Swift’s Works, Lond. 1766, preserved in the family of a sister of T. Lynch, Jr. & is guaranteed to be genuine.” Doublematted and framed with an engraved portrait (featuring a facsimile signature) to an overall size of 15.5 x 18.75. In fine condition.
Lyman C. Draper (1815-1891), Director of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, obtained a collection of clipped Lynch signatures from a descendant of Lynch between 1889 and 1891, the year of his death. Among these were a series of clipped signatures from the title pages of an eighteen-volume Works of Swift, apparently purchased by the young Lynch when he was a law student in England from 1766 to 1770.
With the rise of autograph collecting in nineteenth-century America, one of the first areas of specialization was Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Apart from the Signers’ central role in American history and the unusual significance of their autographs—after all, writing their names is what ensured their immortality—obtaining all 56 represented a goal that, with a little determination, could be achieved by a resourceful collector. It quickly became evident, however, that there were two notorious ‘stoppers’ among the Signers: Button Gwinnett and Thomas Lynch, Jr. It is not entirely clear who is rarer—while Gwinnett was generally thought to be the rarest of all signers, recent studies have proclaimed Lynch as the scarcer of the two. This is an unusually bold, well-preserved example of Lynch’s signature. Starting Bid $2500
Very rare real estate letter by the ailing John Witherspoon
97. John Witherspoon Letter Signed. Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Jersey (1723–1794), who served as an influential president of Princeton University and went on to sign the Articles of Confederation. Rare LS signed “Jno. Witherspoon,” one page both sides, 6 x 12.5, August 29, 1794. Letter concerning some potential real estate transactions toward the end of his life. From his country estate, “Tusculum,” outside Princeton, he opines on plots and prices, in part: “I have wrote you formerly on this subject and therefore shall only say in a few words that…the good land in general must be located many years ago so that what remains comprises of two kinds of lands quite sandy and barren & some small corners and intervals between other settlements the laying warrants upon which would be attended with so much difficulty and danger of law suits that it is better to take the warrant price for them which is commonly given by the adjacent proprietors.” In fine condition, with professionally repaired paper loss to the left edge. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made finely bound quarter leather case. In his 1995 reference History Comes to Life, Kenneth Rendell places Witherspoon’s autograph material into the ‘very rare’ category among the signers of the Declaration. Starting Bid $1000
American Politicians and Leaders
Secretary of the Treasury Hamilton distributes “sea letters” to protect neutral American vessels as war erupts in Europe
98. Alexander Hamilton Letter Signed as Treasury Secretary. LS as Secretary of the Treasury, signed “A. Hamilton,”
one page, 7.75 x 10, May 16, 1793. Treasury Department circular letter to Stephen Smith, collector at Machias, Maine. In full: “Two copies of sea letters are herewith sent you. If there should be a probability of your wanting more, you will lose no time in notifying it to the Collector of Boston, who will be furnished with large parcels and instructed from this office to distribute them among the several collectors of your state as circumstances may require. A greater number would accompany this than do were they prepared, but this is not the case—great delay in getting them ready for transmission is unavoidable.” Expertly archivally mounted, matted, and framed under Tru-Vue Optium UV Acrylic with a color portrait to an overall size of 21.5 x 17. In fine condition, with light toning and some light edge wear.
These sea letters were meant to protect neutral American vessels from interference by warring European powers. Printed in three languages—English, French, and Dutch—the sea letters were signed by President George Washington and Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, then sent to the collectors of the ports for distribution. There, each letter would be filled out with the name of the vessel and its commander, the nature of its cargo, and the bulk of the ship. The urgency of the present letter—sending two copies of the prepared sea letters, with instructions for obtaining more—demonstrates the importance that Hamilton placed upon the matter. Starting Bid $1500
99. Alexander Hamilton Estate Document. Significant partly-printed document concerning the estate of Alexander Hamilton, one page, 6.5 x 5.75, November 29, 1804. Marked as certificate “No. 145,” in full: “Certificate to Rufus King for a Share in the Trust intended in a certain Writing of this date, relative to the Estate of Alexander Hamilton, deceased; and this Certificate to be assignable, and to be receivable on Sales of the Estate by Trustees, as a payment of Two Hundred Dollars: the Dividends, however, if any, which may have been paid on the Share, being first deducted.” Signed at the conclusion by trustees Gouverneur Morris, Rufus King, Egbert Benson, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., and Charles Wilkes. Mounted, matted, and framed with engraved portraits of Hamilton and King, as well as a descriptive caption, to an overall size of 24.5 x 15.25. In fine condition.
Hamilton died on July 12, 1804, after being mortally wounded in his legendary and dramatic duel with rival politician Aaron Burr. He left a complicated will with many large bequests for which there existed insufficient assets. A group of his friends— Gouverneur Morris, Rufus King, Egbert Benson, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., and Charles Wilkes—established a trust, aimed not only at conserving the estate, but enlarging it to support his family. Starting Bid $500
Governor Patrick Henry provides for Virginia’s disabled heroes of the Revolution
100. Patrick Henry Document Signed. DS as Governor, signed “P. Henry,” one page, 6.5 x 8.25, October 20, 1785. Broadside issued from the Virginia Council Chamber to the clerks of the county courts, respecting the pensions for disabled veterans of the Revolution. In part: “I have caused an accurate list of them to be struck off, and do herewith forward one to you, that thereby you may see in what proportion they add to the burthen of taxes...I need not undertake to prove the good that will result from a strict examination into the conditions of the Pensioners, and making proper and punctual returns thereof to the Executive, nothing being more evident than the advantage of lessening the public debt. I could wish to have a return as soon as possible after the receipt hereof, and that afterwards you make returns punctually in months of April and May annually, as directed by the act of October, 1782, concerning Pensioners. In these returns it will be well to specify who are dead, and the intermarriage of widows.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by Governor Patrick Henry. Archivally mounted, matted, and framed under Tru-Vue Museum Glass with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 20.25 x 16. In very good to fine condition, with professional repairs (and possible complete backing) to repair areas of paper loss, and of separation to the central vertical fold. Starting Bid $500
Activists and Leaders
101. Alexander Crummell Autograph Letter Signed.
Pioneering African-American minister, abolitionist, academic, and African nationalist (1819–1898) who lived and worked in Liberia for two decades before returning to the United States; W. E. B. Du Bois paid tribute to Crummell in a memorable essay collected in his 1903 book, The Souls of Black Folk. ALS signed “Alex Crummell,” one page both sides, 5 x 7.75, July 8, 1892. Handwritten letter to Rev. Joseph E. Roy, in part: “As a son of Africa, I am deeply interested in all the problems & movements related to the Negro Race. I am glad that there will be a ‘conference,’ at the ‘World’s Fair,’ pertaining to the Great Continent of Africa; & it will give me pleasure to prepare a paper upon the topic which you have assigned me: ‘The Relation of Africa to the Holy Scriptures.’” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
102. Helen Keller Signed
Photograph. Exquisite vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Keller touching a relief sculpture tile, signed and inscribed in pencil, “With affectionate greetings to Richard P. Wunder, whose bright letter has made us friends, Helen Keller, January 1939.” In fine to very fine condition. Starting Bid $200 103. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signature. Bold ballpoint signature and
inscription, “To Chuck, With Best Wishes, Martin Luther King,” on a blue 5.5 x 4.5 album page, annotated along the top by the collector: “8 June 1965 - Cleveland Hopkins Airport.” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Poignant Mandela ‘freedom’ portrait inscribed to the original Newsweek photographer
104. Nelson Mandela Signed Photographic Print.
Large color semi-glossy 12.5 x 16.5 photographic print of Nelson Mandela raising a fist following his release from Victor Verster Prison on February 11, 1990, signed and inscribed in black felt tip to Mark Peters, the photographer who captured this iconic image—”To Mark, best wishes, N. Mandela, 10. 7. 2000.” The print is affixed to a same-size piece of foamcore, with the reverse signed in black ballpoint by Peters. In fine condition, with two tiny surface dents in the upper left corner. Accompanied by a detailed signed certificate of authenticity from Peters, who recounts how he came to take the first published photograph of Mandela as a free man. A powerful association piece inscribed to the very man who captured this historic moment. Starting Bid $500
105. Nelson Mandela Signed Ballot. Uncommon color
6.75 x 12 ballot for the 1994 Republic of South Africa general elections, signed near his image in blue felt tip, “N. Mandela, 15.10.99.” In very fine condition. Mandela became the country’s first black chief executive when his African National Congress won a sweeping victory in the South African general election of 1994. Starting Bid $200 106. Nelson Mandela Signed Photograph. Glossy
8.25 x 11.75 photo of Mandela in his youth, signed in black felt tip, “N. Mandela, 5.8.99.” In fine condition, with one small surface crease in Mandela’s hair. Starting Bid $200
107. Maria Montessori Signed Photograph. Italian
physician and education theorist (1870-1952) who devised the innovative approach to early childhood learning that bears her name. Uncommon vintage matte-finish 6.5 x 9 photo of the revered educator in a fine coat, neatly signed in fountain pen, “Maria Montessori.” In very good to fine condition, with two creases to the upper right corner, and slight silvering to the perimeter. Starting Bid $200
109. Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi Autograph Letter
Signed. Swiss educational reformer (1746–1827) whose theories laid the foundation of modern elementary education. ALS in German, signed “Pestalozzi,” one page, 4.75 x 7.5, February 27, 1795. Untranslated handwritten letter by the great Swiss pedagogue. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
108. Florence Nightingale Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in pencil, signed “F. Nightingale,” one page both sides, 7 x 4.5, March 25, 1882. Handwritten letter to English lawyer Courtenay Peregrine Ilbert, in part: “I am so ill & overworked that I am unable to see any one without an appointment: & I can only see one person at a time. I fear it would be almost impossible to Mr. Ilbert with his pressing engagements to make an appointment. But I would gladly make one…I would put off any other appointment.” In fine condition, with a rusty circular paperclip impression to the edge. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Nightingale’s hand and signed in the lower left corner, “F. Nightingale, 30/3/82.” Starting Bid $200
Businessmen
110. Jeff Bezos Signed Magazine. Time Magazine
‘Person of the Year’ issue from December 27, 1999, 186 pages, 8 x 10.5, which features Jeff Bezos smiling on the front cover, his head resting in packing peanuts next to a pair of books and a hanging computer mouse, signed vertically in black felt tip, “Customers rule!—Jeff Bezos.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked January 31, 2000. Starting Bid $200 112. Max Factor Signed Photograph. Polish business-
man (1872-1938) who largely developed the modern cosmetics industry as founder of Max Factor & Company. Rare pearlfinish 8 x 10 three-quarter-length portrait of Factor, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Pauline King, with best regards, Max Factor.” In fine condition. This is the only Max Factor autograph we have ever offered. Starting Bid $200
Citroen underscores the “special conditions” for C6 cars rented to French government officials
111. Andre Citroen Typed Letter Signed. French industrialist (1878–
1935) best remembered for the make of car bearing his name. TLS in French, one page, 8 x 10, personal letterhead, July 27, 1932. Letter to Raymond Patenotre, in part: “I take the liberty of drawing your attention to the report which was given to me and according to which the C-6 car that I rented you (under the very special conditions, you know, that I give to the Ministers), would be used only by Members of your Cabinet....these special conditions are obviously only made for ministers alone. Would you therefore be so kind as to examine whether you could not put an end to this state of affairs by using our car yourself as often as possible.” In fine condition, with a crease to the lower left corner, and several rusty paperclip impressions. Accompanied by a draft of Patenotre’s response. Starting Bid $200
Scientists and Inventors
and versatile Swiss-born American zoologist and geologist (1807–1873) who carried out much of his research as a longtime faculty member at Harvard, where he was also instrumental in building the university’s enviable natural history collection. ALS in French, signed “L. Agassiz,” one page, 8.5 x 10.5, no date. Handwritten letter from the “Glacier de l’Aar” in the Bernese Alps, where he built a hut—the ‘Hôtel des Neuchâtelois’—to conduct his scientific observations of the glacier. He acknowledges with gratitude some of the very nice visitors he received there. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light foxing, and wear and staining to the right edge. In 1847, Agassiz published his Système glaciaire, in which he thoroughly discussed the chief phenomena of glaciers. Starting Bid $200
114. Alexander Graham Bell Typed Letter Signed. TLS,
one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, May 5, 1916. Letter to Arthur Irving Martin, in full: “I have just returned from Charleston, S.C. and find your very kind appreciation of me, in verse, awaiting me here. It pleases me to know that you are interested in my work, and I thank you for this graceful expression which you have written.” In fine condition, with scattered light creasing. Starting Bid $200
Handwritten letter by Robert Brown on “the Specimens of Orchidea belonging to the Banksian Herbarium”
115. Robert Brown Autograph Letter Signed. Scottish botanist and palaeobota-
nist (1773–1858) whose pioneering use of the microscope led to valuable contributions in his field, including the observation of Brownian motion. ALS signed “R. Brown,” one page, 7.25 x 9, September 19, 1831. Handwritten letter to botanist John Lindley of the Horticultural Society, in part: “I have to acquaint you that the Specimens of Orchidea belonging to the Banksian Herbarium which I stated in my answer to your letter of the 6th of last month respecting this Family of Plants, were not then accessible, are now put into the same state as those you have already seen and may theretofore be examined by you on any Tuesday or Thursday within the hours mentioned in my in my answer to your Letter.” In fine condition.
Shortly before his death, Joseph Banks bequeathed his herbarium to his librarian Robert Brown on the condition that it would become the property of the British Museum on Brown’s death. Brown transferred the collection to the museum in 1827 and was appointed Keeper of the Banksian Botanical Collection, charged with overseeing the specimens for the rest of his life. Starting Bid $200
Curie seeks out radioactive material: “Unfortunately, the minerals near the author are too rare for us to use in the creation of radium”
116. Pierre Curie Autograph Letter Signed. French physicist (1859–1906)
best known for his pioneering investigation of radioactivity, who shared the 1903 Nobel Prize in Physics with his wife, Marie Curie. ALS in French, signed “P. Curie,” one page, 5.25 x 8.5, Faculte des Sciences de Paris letterhead, February 25, 1905. Fascinating handwritten letter to a gentleman, in part (translated): “The information that you have given to me, which I gratefully thank you for, has shown me that the uranium samples near the author have been known for quite some time. Unfortunately, the minerals near the author are too rare for us to use in the creation of radium. We have recently discovered pyromorphite containing radium in the author’s region (in Issy l’Eveque), which was most likely left by radioactive water. We were able to examine this radium source and gather some decigrams of the product.” In fine condition, with a small stain to the top edge. Starting Bid $300
Dalton reviews a rustic cottage whilst herb-collecting on the English coast
117. John Dalton Autograph Letter Signed. English chemist, meteorologist, and physicist (1766-1844) best known for his pioneering work in the development of modern atomic theory. ALS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.25 x 9, October 6, 1795. Handwritten letter to an “Esteemed Friend,” providing an intriguing review of a rustic cottage and enumerating the many plants he was able to collect on a journey through Cumbria, England. In small part: “When I got there, the good woman of the cottage came out to meet me & show me the well. I tasted the water, & observed it was saline. ‘Aye,’ says a little artless girl, her daughter, standing by, ‘it is saltier now than it should be.’ ‘Whist! cannot thou hold thy tongue,’ returns the mother in a low & rebuking tone, turning her face from me to the child. I made no farther enquiry, since it was evident from this, that art had assisted nature in preparing these medicinal waters...The room was everything—I never saw rusticity in greater perfection...I saw some samphire growing upon the rocks, but could not attain it; the convolvulus saepinum grows on the hedges....The atropa is very plentiful upon the coast.” He goes on to list the Latin names of several plants that he was able to obtain. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
“C. D.,” one page on a 4.75 x 3 postcard, postmarked 1873. Handwritten note by Charles Darwin to American abolitionist and writer Moncure Conway, in full: “Many thanks for the book kindly sent, C. D., Down.” Addressed on the reverse in Darwin’s hand. In very good to fine condition, with mounting remnants to the address side of the postcard. Accompanied by an unsigned original cartede-visite portrait of Darwin by Barraud & Jerrard. Conway moved to London amidst the Civil War and lived in Europe for the rest of his life, traveling in intellectual circles; in addition to Darwin, he counted the likes of Charles Dickens, Robert Browning, Thomas Carlyle, and Charles Lyell amongst his friends. Starting Bid $200
Darwin on the Origin of Species: “My Book has been far more successful as yet, than I dreamed of”
119. Charles Darwin Autograph Letter Signed. ALS
signed “C. Darwin,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, January 29, [1860]. Handwritten letter to his former teacher, John Stevens Henslow, in part: “The measles has gone like wild-fire through the house, but we are now quit of it. We shall be delighted to see you here, whenever you can spare the time…I shall be particularly glad to hear any of your objections to my views, when we meet. My Book has been far more successful as yet, than I dreamed of—The two last chapters are in my opinion the strongest.” In fine condition.
Henslow was a friend and mentor to Charles Darwin, credited with inspiring his passion for natural history. When Henslow’s wife dissuaded him from accepting a position as naturalist to sail aboard the survey ship HMS Beagle during its two-year voyage to survey South America, he wrote to Captain Robert FitzRoy to recommend Darwin in his stead. Darwin would draw upon evidence collected on the famed Beagle expedition in developing his influential evolutionary theories posited in On the Origin of Species. Upon the book’s publication on November 24, 1859, Darwin had his publisher, John Murray, forward a copy to Henslow. At that time, Darwin wrote to Henslow, ‘I fear…that you will not approve of your pupil in this case,’ but requested his thoughts on the work. Henslow indeed had reservations about Darwin’s evolutionary ideas, but respected the immediate and influential impact of On the Origin of Species. In a May 1860 letter to Joseph Dalton Hooker, Henslow admitted: ‘I do not disguise my own opinion that Darwin has pressed his hypothesis too far—but at the same time I assert my belief that his Book is (as Owen described it to me) the ‘Book of the Day.’’
Though much of the correspondence between Darwin and Henslow has been catalogued by the Darwin Correspondence Project, this letter appears to be unpublished. A remarkable autograph letter by Darwin alluding to the great success of his most important work. Starting Bid $500
Handwritten letter from Darwin to his land agent while composing his essay The Descent Of Man
120. Charles Darwin Autograph Letter Signed. ALS
signed “Ch. Darwin,” one page, 5 x 8, May 27, 1869. Handwritten letter to his land agent and financial advisor John Higgins, in part: “I beg leave to acknowledge the sum of £263-13-6 being half a year of rent I placed to my credit at the Union Bank.” Signed at the conclusion by Darwin over an affixed one-penny stamp. In very good to fine condition, with creasing to the bottom corners, and scattered staining affecting only appearance. This payment probably represents rent from Darwin’s farm in Beesby, and dates to the time he worked on his publication ‘The Descent of Man and, Selection in Relation to Sex.’ Catalogued by the Darwin Correspondence Project (D.C.P.) based at Cambridge library as no. 6759F. Starting Bid $500
122. Thomas Edison Signed Photograph. Fantastic vintage matte-finish 3.25 x 5.25 postcard photo of Edison seated in his study in 1904, signed in the lower border in fountain pen with his iconic ‘umbrella’ signature, “Thos. A. Edison.” Impressively mounted, matted, and framed with ephemera including four blank stock certificates for various Edison concerns (the Storage Battery, Phonographs, Kinetophone, and Illuminating Company) and a 1936 Thomas A. Edison Industries document signed by several company officers (including his son, Charles Edison) to an overall size of 35 x 26. In fine condition, with light silvering along the edges of the photo. A great pose of the pioneering American inventor, handsomely displayed. Starting Bid $200
123. Thomas Edison Signed Check. Edison Botonic
Research Corporation business check, 8.5 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Edison, “Thos. A. Edison,” payable to W. H. Hand for $40, July 12, 1928. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200 124. Thomas Edison Autograph Notes Signed. Hand-
written notes by Thomas Edison, signed with his initials, “T.A.E.,” on an off-white 7.25 x 3 lined sheet. In part: “Wind it up & turn over, Ford to Benny…Records to #21—to 62, Salvaged as far as can after cleaning, Only those lean label & OK on drop tests.” Double-matted and framed with a colorized portrait to an overall size of 11.75 x 15. In fine condition, with uniform toning. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
Jacobi portrait of Einstein from 1942
125. Albert Einstein Signed Photograph.
Vintage glossy 5 x 7 photo of Albert Einstein by Lotte Jacobi, showing him in a half-length pose wearing a leather jacket and holding a pipe, signed in the lower border in ink, “A. Einstein, 1942.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a second unsigned photo of the same image.
A noted female portraitist who photographed many of the 20th century’s most famous men and women, Jacobi was descended from a long line of photographers—her great-grandfather having learned the craft from the inventor of photography himself, Louis Daguerre. Opposed to the rigid portraiture technique that characterized the photography studio of her time, Jacobi enjoyed bringing the studio to the subject, capturing them at ease in informal settings. Starting Bid $1000
Einstein comments on his instant fame in 1920
tant ALS in German, signed “Einstein,” one page, 8.75 x 11, February 2, 1920. Handwritten letter to fellow physicist Ludwig Hopf, commenting on his newfound fame brought about by the experimental confirmation of gravitational light deflection. In full (translated): “Saying no truly never was my strength. But in the predicament in which I find myself now, I am slowly learning. Since the influx of newspaper articles, I am being so terribly deluged with inquiries, invitations, and requests that at night I dream I am burning in hell and the postman is the devil and is continually screaming at me, hurling a fresh bundle of letters at my head because I still haven’t answered the old ones. Added to that, I have my fatally ill mother here at home as a result of the ‘momentous times’ must attend countless meetings, etc.—in short, I am nothing but a bunch of pitiful reflex motions. So, mercy and pity, that’s all I am asking. I am not lecturing at Zurich anymore, partly because I cannot leave here, partly because physics there is so superbly represented that my schoolteaching has become absolutely superfluous over there. So please pacify Sommerfeld by giving him a faithful rendition of my truly pitiable situation (resplendent misery) and accept my cordial regards.” In fine condition, with small old tape stains at the ends of the central horizontal fold. The text of this letter is found in The Collected Papers of Albert Einstein: Volume 9: The Berlin Years: Correspondence, January 1919-April 1920, and is referenced in Walter Isaacson’s biography of the genius.
The first tests of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity were performed by Sir Arthur Eddington during the total solar eclipse of May 29, 1919. His observations of the gravitational deflection of light offered the first experimental proof of Einstein’s groundbreaking theory. Widespread newspaper coverage of these results—commented on in the present letter—led to worldwide fame for Einstein and his theories, and he received the Nobel Prize in 1921. A remarkable and insightful letter by Einstein on his overnight celebrity and its effects on his life and work. Starting Bid $1000
Important autograph letter on the mathematics of a new Unified Field Theory
130. Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed. ALS
in German, signed “A. E.,” three pages on two sheets, 8.5 x 11, May 28, 1950. Lengthy and detailed handwritten letter to his former assistant, the German-American mathematician Ernst G. Straus. Seeking to expand General Relativity into a “Generalized Theory of Gravitation” (as a basis from which the electromagnetic field equations can be derived), Einstein is here wrestling with the problem of finding Bianchi Identities that support a consistent theory of asymmetric fields. (Bianchi Identities are of relevance for both Riemann and Einstein tensors and essentially force the covariant divergence of the Einstein tensor to be 0.) In this highly technical letter to his former assistant, E. G. Straus, Einstein indicates that he is looking for “a complete choice of coordinates”; and he here provides a formula that “corresponds exhaustively to the content of Bianchi Identities” and which he thinks “can be applied to any vector density with an identical vanishing divergence.” The letter suggests, however, that the effort is still a workin-process: Einstein here admitting to a previous “mistake, which I had made owing to an erroneous consideration of the Bianchi Identities” and pointing at the “ticklish issue” of Straus’ example which cannot be resolved to an identity. In fine to very fine condition. At the time of this letter’s composition (1950), Einstein was at work on his final version of Unified Field Theory, which explored the use of asymmetric tensor components in equations. In his initial papers (1945-46) on this final version of UFT, Einstein attempted to determine the asymmetric equations by using “a variational principle in close analogy to the symmetric case.” But Einstein subsequently took a new approach to the problem in his 1950 paper “The Bianchi Identities in the Generalized Theory of Gravitation,” Einstein there affirming that “In the theory of symmetric fields there is a second method of ensuring the compatibility of the field-equations (Rik = 0). We must have four identities connecting the equations. These can be derived by contracting the Bianchi Identities which hold for the curvature tensor.” The present letter extends and develops the thinking Einstein articulated in this important 1950 paper.
Einstein letters of this caliber rarely appear on the market. The content is entirely mathematical in nature, and the letter itself has the appearance of a Unified Field Theory manuscript. This letter is both formally unpublished and unknown to scholarship. Starting Bid $5000
A 1945 study of spacetime curvature, handwritten by Einstein for his article ‘A Generalization of the Relativistic Theory of Gravitation’
128. Albert Einstein Handwritten Scientific Manuscript. Important scientific manuscript written in the hand of Albert Einstein in German, unsigned, one page, 8.5 x 11, no date circa 1945. A draft variant of page 9 of the manuscript of ‘Auf die Theorie metrischer komplexer Raume gegründete Feldtheorie’ (‘A Field Theory Based on the Theory of Complex Metric Spaces’), the initial version of the article ‘A Generalization of the Relativistic Theory of Gravitation,’ published in Annals of Mathematics, Vol. 46 (Oct. 1945), pp. 578-584. Headed “Krümmung [Curvature],” the piece concludes (translated): “This tensor seems to me to be excellent above all other tensors to be formed in S4. We want to take a closer look at it.” In differential geometry, the Einstein tensor, also known as the trace-reversed Ricci tensor, is used to express the curvature of a pseudo-Riemannian manifold. In general relativity, it occurs in the Einstein field equations for gravitation that describe spacetime curvature in a manner that is consistent with conservation of energy and momentum. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $1000
Classic portrait of Einstein signed in 1947, plus rare candids with negatives
129. Albert Einstein Signed Photograph with (5)
Candids. Highly appealing vintage matte-finish 5 x 7 portrait of Einstein relaxing in a sweater, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. & Mrs. Maynard, Albert Einstein 1947.” In very good to fine condition, with slight brushing to the ink, a light diagonal crease passing between Einstein’s last name and the date, and light silvering to the perimeter of the image. Accompanied by a telegram from Einstein to “Mr. and Mrs. Lester Maynard,” May 31, 1946, in full: “Hearty wishes for a happy life to the young couple and greetings for the families”; a telegram from “Aunt Helen,” apparently Helen Dukas, Einstein’s longtime secretary; five original candid photographs of Einstein, four of which include the original negatives; and a matte-finish portrait of Einstein by Philippe Halsman. Starting Bid $1000
Einstein allows the use of “passages mentioned from my work in your book”
131. Albert Einstein Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “A.
Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal Princeton, New Jersey letterhead, February 20, 1939. Letter to author and schoolteacher Peter F. Wiener, granting him permission to cite a quotation in a publication, German with Tears. In full (translated): “I would like to agree that you quote the passages mentioned from my work in your book. With great respect.” In fine condition, with one small file hole to the upper left corner. Accompanied by a letter of provenance stating that the consignor’s father was presented with this letter by Wiener in the late 1940s. Starting Bid $300
physicist and chemist (1791–1867) best known for his development of the first dynamo and the discovery of electromagnetic induction. ALS signed “M. Faraday,” one page, 4.5 x 5, embossed Royal Institution of Great Britain letterhead, December 19, 1861. Handwritten letter to “W. Bowman,” in full: “I return you Mr. Cooke’s certificate signed—with great pleasure.” In fine condition, with light irregular toning. Accompanied by an engraved portrait. Starting Bid $200
“The apparatus has arrived”—Faraday receives equipment for his last experiments
133. Michael Faraday Autograph Letter Signed. ALS
signed “M. Faraday,” one page, 4.5 x 7, March 26, 1861. Handwritten letter to “Renee,” commenting on an apparatus received from the Bavarian physicist and inventor Carl August von Steinheil, who specialized in optics and telegraphy. In part: “I have received Steinheil’s note & bill (which I enclose) also the apparatus has arrived…if I knew how much 137 fl. were I would send you the money with this note. If you cannot pay for me can you tell me the sum to pay & how I am to pay it and let me have the bill & note again that I may write to him.” In very good to fine condition, with stains and wrinkles to the corners from old mounting remnants on the reverse. In diary entries made between November 25, 1861 and March 12, 1862, Faraday recorded his experiments with Steinheil’s apparatus—these are thought to be the last scientific experiments he ever conducted. Starting Bid $200
134. Enrico Fermi Signed Galley Proof. Important
corrected galley proof of “Le Masse Nella Teoria della Relativita [The Masses in The Theory of Relativity],” signed at the conclusion in ink by its author, “Dott. E. Fermi,” two pages, 7.5 x 11, [October 1922]. Fermi signs a corrected galley proof of his analysis of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, which refers to the famous mass-energy equivalence equation E = mc2 and anticipates the atomic bomb. In part (translated): “The tremendous conceptual importance of the theory of relativity as a contribution to a more profound understanding of the relationship between space and time…has diverted the attention from another of its conclusions…The conclusion to which we allude above is the discovery of the relationship between the mass of a body and its energy. The mass of a body according to the theory of relativity is equal to the total energy divided by the square of the velocity of light. Even a superficial examination reveals to us…the importance of the relationship between mass and energy. The relationship between mass and energy brings us, without any doubt, to staggering figures. For example, if one could succeed in setting free all the energy contained in one gram of matter, one would obtain an energy greater than that produced during three years of uninterrupted functioning of a 1,000 horsepower motor…It will be said, with reason, that for the foreseeable future, it does not seem possible that a way will be found to set free this frightening quantity of energy. Of course, this is something we should not wish for, because the explosion of such an overwhelming total of energy would have the immediate effect of shattering to smithereens whatever physicist was unlucky enough to produce it.” In fine condition.
An immensely significant paper signed by Fermi at the age of 21, just months after earning his doctorate in physics from the University of Pisa. Einstein had introduced the concept of mass-energy equivalence during his ‘annus mirabilis’ in 1905, and had fully developed the General Theory of Relativity by 1916. Its experimental proof in 1919 made Einstein an overnight celebrity, and his theories were brought to the forefront of modern science. Here, Fermi astutely recognizes the importance of the relationship between mass and energy, and examines the way that such energy might be unleashed. Fermi would dedicate his career to that question, creating the world’s first nuclear reactor (the Chicago Pile-1), and developing the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project under Oppenheimer. A museum-quality piece signed by Fermi at the outset of his celebrated career in physics. Starting Bid $2500
Fulton offers a “comparative view of an engine and hand labour in making cables,” estimating cost savings for the French Navy
135. Robert Fulton Autograph Manuscript Signed. AMS signed “Robert Fulton,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8.25, March 7, 1799. Handwritten manuscript headed “Comparative view of an engine and hand labour in making cables,” estimating the amount of time and money saved by his technological innovations. In part: “Suppose by the spinning engine one man produces as much yarn as 20 this would reduce the work of spinning from 500 days to 25. 300 days labour seems to be allowed for laying the cable…In order to make the first rope of the able 4 men could certainly put the spools into the engine in one hour. As three such ropes are required, the labour would be 3 hours. The spools must then be put in the engine and the movements of the engine altered for cabling for this two hours are sufficient which together makes 5 hours work for 4 men but for contingencies estimate this at 4 days work. Hence the labour would stand thus; for spinning 25 days, for cabling 4 days, total 29 days instead of 300…the 300 days would incur an expense of 1200 Livres. Whereas my 29 days is but 49 Livres…By the same mode of calculations if the manual labour of the cordage for the Navy of France costs 3 millions per year, 2,333,3337 Livres may be saved.” In very good to fine condition, with a small clipped off area, and associated slice to the bottom of the hinge. Though perhaps best known for his invention of the steamboat, Fulton also developed naval weaponry for several nations—namely France, England, and America. His contributions in this realm included some of the world’s earliest naval torpedoes for use by the British Royal Navy, and the Nautilus submarine under a grant from Napoleon. In this instance, he aims to use his engine to support cost savings for the French Navy. Starting Bid $300
137. Werner Heisenberg Signed Photograph. German theoretical physicist
(1901–1976) awarded the 1932 Nobel Prize in physics for the creation of quantum mechanics. Uncommon matte-finish 4.25 x 6.5 photo of Heisenberg, signed in the lower border in blue ink. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Incredibly rare letter by the Gray’s Anatomy author, lobbying for “the Office of Examiner in Anatomy & Physiology at the University of London”
136. Henry Gray Autograph Letter Signed. Exceedingly rare ALS signed “Henry Gray,” one page both sides, 4.5 x 7, no date. Handwritten letter to English botanist and taxonomist Maxwell T. Masters, written from his home at “8 Wilton Street.” In part: “I am a candidate for the Office of Examiner in Anatomy & Physiology at the University of London, & I write to ask you to give me what assistance you can in obtaining the office…Candidates are not allowed either directly or indirectly to ask for any vote, but there is no objection to their friends sending a statement of their qualifications to any member of the Senate. I believe all the Examiners for Medicine, Anatomy, &C are recommended by a Committee of the Senate which consist of the Medical members of the Senate.” In fine condition, with a rusty circular paperclip impression to the top. Still considered the ‘doctors’ bible,’ few textbooks have had the same lasting impact on medicine and popular culture as Gray’s Anatomy, first published in London in 1858. The author’s early death from smallpox at the age of 34 has rendered his autograph virtually unobtainable— this is the first example we have ever encountered. This letter’s excellent content, seeking a post as examiner in Anatomy & Physiology, makes it even more desirable. Starting Bid $300
138. Alexander von Humboldt Autograph Letter Signed. German naturalist
and explorer (1769–1859) who wrote Kosmos, a massive five-volume study which attempted to unify the various branches of man’s knowledge. ALS in German, one page, 5.25 x 8.25, no date. Handwritten letter to “Monsieur Savoye,” care of the chief of the German Panorama, in part (translated): “The idea of the German Panorama is conceived with intelligence and artistically directed. Most kindly accept the expression of my most cordial thanks. It would be a pleasure to me to be able to repeat to you…how much I wish this noble undertaking godspeed.” In very good to fine condition, with overall wrinkling, staining to edges, and a mounting strip to the left side. Starting Bid $200
139. Auguste Lumiere Letter Signed. Inventor of
photographic equipment (1862–1954) who, with his brother Louis, patented the cinematograph and produced the first-ever motion picture in 1894. LS in French, one page, 8.5 x 10.5, fabulously illustrated Antoine Lumiere & Fils letterhead, April 13, 1892. Untranslated letter to Maurice Lhuillier in Chartres. In fine condition, with small binding holes along the left edge. Starting Bid $200 141. Elie Metchnikoff Autograph Letter Signed. Rus-
sian biologist and zoologist (1845–1916) best known for his pioneering research into the immune system, for which he was awarded the 1908 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Untranslated ALS in French, one page, 4.25 x 5.5, postmarked December 11, 1905. Addressed from the Pasteur Institute, a handwritten letter to Monsieur Mariani. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
doctor (1628–1694) who gave his name to several physiological features and played an important part in the discovery of the microscope and study of human physiology. ALS in Latin, signed “Marcellus Malpighius,” one page, 7.75 x 5.25, August 29, 1691. Handwritten letter, in part (translated): “I, Professor of Medicine…award to Giorgio Baglioni of Naples, this Medical Certificate of completion, and in good faith and with my own hand place my signature thereto.” In fine condition, with two small holes affecting nothing. Starting Bid $200
Elon Musk as a tough-grading TA in 1995— two rare UPenn papers marked up and graded by the future Tesla CEO
142. Elon Musk Annotated and Initialed Coursework. Two pieces
of coursework annotated and initialed by Elon Musk as a teaching assistant in an entrepreneurship class (MGMT 231) taught by Myles Bass at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School in 1995. The first, classic UPenn written exam booklet with nine pages filled out, is graded and initialed by Musk on the front cover in red ink, “73, EM.” Throughout, he checks off key points made in the exam, striking off points for incorrect or inaccurate answers. In one instance, where the student defines “Exit Strategy” as “a viable way to end operations if shit hits the fan,” Musk writes, “graphic,” and deducts two points.
The second piece, a five-page case study on the topic of Ruth Owades’ mail-order specialty gardening tool idea, is graded and initialed on the first page in red ink by Musk, “8 1/2, EM.” Musk simply checks off the critical points made throughout the paper, abstaining from comment. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letters of authenticity from PSA/DNA for both signed items.
Accompanied by the original course syllabus, listing Musk as one of two teaching assistants, and a detailed letter of provenance from the consignor. Musk’s autograph is rare in any form, and the early date and connection with his alma mater—he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with degrees in economics and physics in 1997—make this collection truly unique and remarkable. Starting Bid $300
Rare handwritten document by Alfred Nobel, directing dynamite production in Italy
143. Alfred Nobel Autograph Document Signed. Important partially handwritten and twice-signed document in French, signed “Alfred Nobel” and “A. Nobel,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 10.75, January 24, 1873, in which Nobel gives permission for the production of dynamite in Italy. The agreement entails that a company (“anonymous Italian society for the production of dynamite”) is to be founded, in which Alfred Nobel will receive 1,200 shareholdings, while the other shall receive 340 shareholdings. Nobel concludes by clarifying that this agreement does not, in any way, restrict the Nobel patent for the dynamite.
The first page and a half, written in another hand, concerns the shares of the company. The concluding portion, written in Nobel’s hand (the first portion in ink over pencil), in full (translated): “Good for three hundred and forty dividend shares of the anonymous Italian Dynamite Society against the twelve hundred shares assigned to me by the Society’s action on January 24, 1873. Alfred Nobel, P.S. It is understood that my signature under this letter and on the action of the Society today in no way grants the right to Mr. Carstens and Mr. Boardmann to file for a patent of an invention that was mine, whether on their own or via a proxy. A. Nobel.” In fine condition, with a crease to the lower right corner, and a light stain at the bottom of the hinge. Starting Bid $1000
144. Robert Oppenheimer Signature. Uncommon ball-
point signature, “Robert Oppenheimer,” on an off-white 8.25 x 5.75 card, also signed by his wife, “Katherine Oppenheimer” and signed in fountain pen by a Nobel Peace Prize winner, “Dominique Pire.” A clipped magazine photo of the three together is affixed above the signatures. In fine condition, with wrinkling to the image. An interesting, unique trio of autographs. Starting Bid $200
Pasteur comments on the vaccination of swine in an autograph postscript
145. Louis Pasteur Letter Signed. LS in French, signed “L. Pasteur,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 10.75, October 7, [1883]. Untranslated letter to “Monsieur Mancuer,” with six lines in Pasteur’s hand on the reverse commenting on the vaccination of swine. In very good to fine condition, with scattered staining, two small chips to the left edge, and a short split to the end of the horizontal fold. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
In 1882, Pasteur sent his assistant Louis Thuillier to southern France because of an epidemic of swine erysipelas, commonly called ‘diamond skin disease.’ Thuillier identified the bacillus that caused the disease in March 1883. Pasteur and Thuillier increased the bacillus’s virulence after passing it through pigeons, then passed it through rabbits, weakening it and obtaining a vaccine. Starting Bid $200
146. Max Planck Autograph Letter Signed on Max Abraham’s Theory of Gravitation (February 14, 1912). ALS
in German, signed “M. Planck,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, February 14, 1912. Handwritten letter to Dr. Ludwik Silberstein, discussing his former Ph.D. student Max Abraham’s 1912 theory of gravitation—a precursor to Einstein’s general theory of relativity, the theory of gravity as spacetime geometry. In part (translated): “First and above all, I have to emphasize that the assumption c = constant is absolutely incompatible with the new Abraham theory, and that all consequences to be drawn from this assumption have no binding value within the framework of this theory. The transformation formulas x’=γ(x-βct),.... of the usual theory of relativity therefore also have no general significance in the Abraham theory. They contradict invariance (with respect to ‘Lorentz transformation’) of degree and of degree Φ, which is postulated in the Abraham theory. The place of those transformation formulas, therefore, must be taken by other, more general ones, perhaps dx’=γ(dx-βcdt),...From a general perspective, therefore, Abraham’s conclusions cannot be maintained in connection with the elementary law of gravitation.
However, this does not exclude the possibility that, especially in the case of slow movements and in weak fields, c can be considered as constant to a high degree of approximation, and consequently that many conclusions of the usual theory of relativity appear as approximate theorems of the new theory. This must nevertheless be specially investigated in every case. Perhaps the results obtained by Abraham can then also be upheld in this approximated sense. Little can be said about this in advance. If I have understood Abraham correctly, this is also his opinion with regard to the significance of his elementary law of gravitation.” In fine condition, with partial edge splitting to central horizontal fold. Starting Bid $200
Poincare’s 41-page handwritten draft of a scientific paper on “the Kinetic Theory of Gases”
147. Henri Poincare Autograph Manuscript Signed. French mathematician, physicist, and philosopher of science (1854-1912) who famously formulated the ‘Poincare Conjecture,’ which went unsolved for nearly a century. Handwritten scientific manuscript in French, titled and signed by Henri Poincare, “Sur la Théorie Cinétique des Gaz par H. Poincare,” totaling 41 pages, circa 1894. Published in Volume 5 of the Revue Générale des Sciences Pures et Appliquées (1894), the paper contains Poincare’s detailed exposition of Maxwell’s kinetic theory of gases, written for the benefit of the French scientific community. Poincare observes that the French are far less familiar with Maxwell’s ideas than their British counterparts (“cette théorie a été beaucoup moins cultivée par les physiciens francais que par les anglais”). James C. Maxwell, along with Rudolf Clausius, had been responsible for establishing the complex kinetic theory of gases in the 1860s, which even thirty years later were still being debated by the likes of Lord Kelvin. Poincare notes Kelvin’s unspecified “objection” to Maxwell’s theory in the first paragraph of this paper. The draft has approximately 100 small corrections, emendations or excisions, and printer’s pencil marks throughout. In very good to fine condition, with scattered soiling, chipped edges, and small professional repairs, including silking to the back of the final page. Accompanied by a photocopy of the paper as printed in the Revue Générale.
Provenance: The Harvey Plotnick Library of Quantum Physics, Christie’s, 3 October 2002. Starting Bid $1000
Rare 1896 handwritten letter by Nikola Tesla, just five days before illuminating the city of Buffalo
148. Nikola Tesla Autograph Letter Signed.
ALS signed “N. Tesla,” one page, 8.5 x 11, November 11, 1896. Handwritten letter to “Mr. Adams,” in full: “I have thought that it is better to forward the papers to your home so that you may eventually look over them on your way down town. There is no error of importance only I have made a few insignificant changes or additions.” In fine condition, with splitting to the ends of the two mailing folds. Accompanied by a 1973 letter from the Heritage Bookshop in Hollywood, offering the Tesla letter for sale.
It seems likely that Tesla wrote this letter to Edward Dean Adams, the president of Niagara Falls Hydraulic Power and Manufacturing Company which built the first hydroelectric power plants—designed by Tesla—in Niagara Falls, New York. Just five days after this date, at midnight on November 16, 1896, the power plant underwent its first test transfer of electrical power. By the flip of a switch, the Adams Power Plant Transformer House went online and power began to flow into homes nearby in Buffalo. It marked a signal moment in Tesla’s quest to illuminate the world. Starting Bid $500
149. Nikola Tesla High Frequency Current Converter
Patent Lithograph. Original patent lithograph for Nikola Tesla’s “Apparatus for Producing Currents of High Frequency” one page, 7 x 10.75, June 8, 1897. The diagram features views of the device from multiple angles. Marked at the bottom: “The Norris Peters Co., Photo-Litho, Washington, D.C.” Includes the printed United States Patent Office specification sheet, two pages on one sheet, which describes the invention as an “improvement in the apparatus for the conversion of electrical currents of ordinary character—such, for instance, as are obtainable from the mains of municipal electric light and power systems and either continuous or alternating—into currents of very high frequency and potential.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Rare handwritten letter from Alfred Russel Wallace to Charles Darwin
150. Alfred Wallace Autograph Letter Signed. British naturalist, explorer, and
biologist (1823–1913) best known for proposing a theory of natural selection which prompted Charles Darwin to publish his own. ALS signed “Alfred R. Wallace,” one page, 4.5 x 7, November 24, 1881. Handwritten letter to Charles Darwin, “My dear Darwin,” in full: “Godalming, or Frith Hill, Godalming, is quite sufficient address for a Railway parcel—but it is as well to put via Guildford as it is on another line. Many thanks for the trouble of sending the book. We are quite well & hope you are the same.” In fine condition. The last letter from Darwin to Wallace recorded by the University of Cambridge’s Darwin Correspondence Project, dated November 23, 1881, passes on a spare copy of The Life, Letters and Journals of Sir Charles Lyell, edited by Katharine M. Lyell. This unrecorded letter is evidently Wallace’s reply. Starting Bid $200
Lengthy handwritten letter by James Watt on a vexing Spanish steam-engine project
151. James Watt Autograph Letter Signed.
Large and lengthy ALS signed “Boulton & Watt,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 10 x 15.5, October 21, 1793. Handwritten letter to the London merchant Fermin de Tastet, concerning the myriad problems encountered while constructing a steam enginepowered sawmill at the docks in Cadiz. Watt’s firm of Boulton & Watt had sold a ‘sun and planet’ steam engine through Fermin de Tastet for the project. Watt first discusses the complaints and observations of engine erector James Murdock, the brother important Boulton & Watt employee William Murdock (inventor of the oscillating cylinder steam engine, gas lighting, and the the pneumatic tube message system), who would be dismissed in 1795 for financial misconduct while at Cadiz. He then discusses the situation of his son, James Watt, Jr., who had recently been denounced in the British parliament for his support of the Jacobins amidst the French Revolution. A manuscript copy of Murdock’s letter is written opposite the address leaf. In fine condition, with some scattered staining and a rusty circular paperclip impression to the edge. Starting Bid $300
Intellectuals
The Rosetta Stone translator writes to one of his fiercest rivals: “I send you the first published part of my ‘Egyptian Pantheon’”
155. Jean Francois Champollion Autograph Letter
Signed. French scholar (1790-1832) who published the first translation of the Rosetta Stone hieroglyphs in 1822. Rare ALS in French, signed “J. F. Champollion, Le jeune,” one page, 7 x 8.5, April 12, 1823. Letter to the famous German linguist Julius Heinrich Klaproth (1783-1835) in Paris. Translated in full: “Sir I accept with pleasure the exchange you were kind to propose and I send you the first published part of my ‘Egyptian Pantheon.’ The others will be sent to you as they will appear in print. I will be very flattered if they meet with your approval. Please accept the expression of the high consideration in which you are kept by your humble servant.” Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel in another hand, as well as docketing. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing. Neither the first nor the following parts of Champollion’s masterwork met with Klaproth’s approval, who criticized the French scholar’s work in his own book published four years later: ‘Letter on the Discovery of Hieroglyphs.’ A very important exchange between the claimant of a major discovery and his main disbeliever. Starting Bid $500
On a film adaptation of his work— “My mind doesn’t function along these modern ways, but I could imagine that a fertile and dramatising mind could get the necessary kick out of my peculiar way of looking at things”
156. Carl Jung Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “C. G. Jung,” one page, 8.25 x 11.75, personal letterhead, February 1, 1949. Letter to P. M. Shankland from Short Film Production on a film adaptation of his Essays on Contemporary Events, in part: “My mind doesn’t function along these modern ways, but I could imagine that a fertile and dramatising mind could get the necessary kick out of my peculiar way of looking at things.” In fine condition, with some tiny stains, and three files, along the left edge. Starting Bid $300
Rare handwritten letter by Thomas Paine, interceding with the president of the Bank of North America on behalf of his best friend
158. Thomas Paine Autograph Letter Signed. Rare
ALS, signed “Thomas Paine,” one page, 8.5 x 13, March 20, 1787. Handwritten letter to Thomas Willing, seeking a financial favor for his best friend, Col. Joseph Kirkbride. In full: “A very intimate friend of mine Col. Kirkbride, has a Bond of Mr. Rich’d Penn for about £1000—he has a present occasion for 400, for 6 or 7 months—His landed Estate is in Pennsylvania—he called on me this morning and mentioned these with other circumstances to me, accompanied with a wish, that if it was convenient to me whether I could accommodate him with that sum for that time, I acquainted him with the manner in which what money I had would be dispersed of, which puts it out of my power to oblige him. My desire to serve him on any occasion induces me to mention this circumstance to you—I believe it is not regularly within the line of business done in the Bank—but as he can deposit real security to a great deal more amount, it would give me much pleasure to be the means of promoting his convenience—I intended waiting on you this Evening on this occasion, but as I cannot I must defer it until the morning.” In fine condition. The recipient of this letter, Thomas Willing, formerly a mayor of Philadelphia, was at this time president of the Bank of North America—the first bank chartered by the Continental Congress. Paine was an important supporter of the Bank, and stood by Willing during the political struggle over its recharter. In this instance, it seems that Paine’s lifelong friend, Col. Joseph Kirkbride, faced a misfortune associated with the end of the Revolution: he held a bond with Richard Penn, the Loyalist governor of Pennsylvania, who was then living in London. Financial obligations with American Loyalists were in an ambiguous state after the conclusion of the Treaty of Paris because of disputes over two of its provisions: the clause requiring the British to compensate for slaves who ran away to British lines, and the clause requiring states to compensate for lands and properties confiscated from Loyalists. Ultimately, Penn would be allowed compensation by the US government for the loss of his proprietary rights in Pennsylvania. Starting Bid $2500
The 24-year-old “Fritz Nietzsche” writes to his childhood pal upon taking a professorship in Basel:“You learn to neglect your most sacred duties, friendship”
157. Friedrich Nietzsche Autograph Letter Signed. Extremely rare ALS in German, signed “Fritz Nietzsche,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.25, July 4, 1869. Letter to his childhood friend Wilhelm Pinder, in part (translated): “The first sign of life that you receive from me from Basel is a birthday letter. You can see the demoralizing influence of such an office: you learn to neglect your most sacred duties, friendship. Today, however, when a look at the calendar made it clear to me the injustice I had committed, I was urged to ask you for absolution, which of course I would have preferred to ask you personally, considering that solemn Rutiscene [a magnificent mountain on the lakes near Lucerne] on the Naumberg pavement and that one there gives mutual promise to meet as soon as possible in Basel for the purpose of a good breakfast and other serious things…I should think that after the storms and excitement of your profession, you should often have a longing to have a rest in an alpine valley away from murderers and other rascals…You always have to tell me such plans first, because I am now for all my friends the Alpine Guide, who will receive them at the Swiss border and who will be happy to present this new fatherland with its beauties.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Nietzsche’s hand and bearing his complete monogrammed wax seal (“F. N.”) on the reverse. Letters by Nietzsche are incredibly rare and highly sought after. Starting Bid $5000
Religious
World Leaders and Politicians
Panchen Lama of Tibet (1883–1917) who first discovered and identified the 14th Dalai Lama. Extremely rare vintage ink signature of Thubten Choekyi Nyima, 9th Panchen Lama on an off-white 2.25 x 1.25 card, affixed to a 7 x 8.5 mount, with portrait affixed above. On the left side of the mount is an original circa 1945 photograph of Tenzin Gyatso, 14th Dalai Lama, with handwritten caption affixed below. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
161. Simon Bolivar Letter Signed. LS in Spanish, signed
“Bolivar,” one page, 7.25 x 9, October 17, 1888. Letter to Baptis Irvine, agent of the United States in Venezuela, in part (translated): “I have the honor of returning you the note you had the goodness to address to me, of the 19th inst. If at the time of receiving it I could have inspected that you had neither changed to tone or subject, I would have returned it unopened, because the discussion of the captures being terminated on my part, I neither can nor ought admit any communication concerning them.” He advises that further communications on the matter be directed through the secretary of state. A manuscript translation to English has been penned on the reverse. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing, and overall silking. In 1818, Baptis Irvine was sent on a special mission to negotiate with Bolivar over the capture by Venezuela of two American merchant ships: the State Department desired restitution of the vessels and their property. His reports back to the State Department were significant, as he was the only American to have extensive personal contact and correspondence with the ‘Great Liberator.’ Starting Bid $300
Counsel from Churchill to the young Queen on her public declaration of faith
162. Winston Churchill Typed Letter Signed to Queen
Elizabeth II. Third-person TLS from Prime Minister Winston Churchill to Elizabeth II prior to her accession to the throne on February 6, 1952, one page, 7.5 x 9.5, written on Queen Elizabeth’s embossed personal stationery. The letter, in full: “In 1937 His late Majesty was advised to make this Declaration omitting the words ‘of my Realm’ on the ground that they did not take account of the independent status of the Dominions which had been affirmed by the Statue of Westminster. Mr. Churchill considers that on the present occasion Your Majesty would do well to follow the precedent established by King George VI. Mr. Churchill feels that Your Majesty will Yourself wish to decide to use the title ‘Elizabeth’ or ‘Elizabeth the Second’ in the opening words of the Declaration.” Signed boldly at the conclusion by the prime minister, “And with humble duty remains, Yr Majesty’s faithful & devoted servant, Winston S. Churchill.” In very good to fine condition, with a few light stains, a single file hole, and a paperclip impression to the left edge. A historic message of counsel from Churchill to the new Queen of the United Kingdom. Starting Bid $300
163. Winston Churchill Signature.
Ink signature, “Winston S. Churchill,” on an off-white 5.25 x 6.75 sheet of RMS Queen Mary letterhead. In fine condition, with a small end split to the central horizontal fold. Starting Bid $200
164. Winston Churchill Signature.
Bold ink signature, “Winston S. Churchill,” on an off-white 3.5 x 1 sheet, which is matted and framed with a large glossy photo to an overall size of 11.75 x 18.5. In fine condition, with a small, light stain touching the first letter of the signature. Starting Bid $200
165. Winston Churchill: First Edition Set of The Second
World War, Volumes I-VI. Complete first edition book set: The Second World War, Volumes I-VI. All first edition, first printing. London: Cassell and Co. Ltd., 1948-1954. Unsigned. Hardcovers with dust jackets, 6 x 8.5. Overall book condition: VG/VG, with scattered foxing to textblock edges, minor toning and a few nicks to dust jacket edges, and spines darkened.
As Britain’s prime minister for most of the Second World War, Winston Churchill had an unparalleled perspective on the conflict. After leaving office in 1945, he produced this remarkable account, which holds a very high place in the ranks of nonfiction books of the 20th century. The comprehensive series was a major success in both Great Britain and the United States, and was largely responsible for his being awarded the 1953 Nobel Prize for Literature ‘for his mastery of historical and biographical description as well as for brilliant oratory in defending exalted human values.’ Starting Bid $200
Churchill and King George appoint a new Secretary of State for Scotland
Signed. World War II-dated DS, signed by the prime minister, “Winston S. Churchill,” and the king, “App’d GRI,” one page, 6.75 x 8.75, 10 Downing Street letterhead, May 25, 1945. In full: “Mr. Churchill, with his humble duty to The King, has the honour to recommend that the Earl of Rosebery, D.S.O., M.C., be sworn of Your Majesty’s most honourable Privy Council on his appointment as Secretary of State for Scotland.” Matted to an overall size of 11 x 14.25. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Rare Ho Chi Minh portrait presented to a French Resistance patriot in 1946
167. Ho Chi Minh Signed Photograph. Extremely
rare vintage matte-finish 7 x 9.5 photo of Ho Chi Minh, signed and inscribed in fountain pen to the French Resistant activist Jean Pierre-Bloch, “A Pierre Bloch, Salut fraternel, Ho Chi Minh, 9.46.” Affixed to a slightly larger mount and in fine condition, with some fading to the handwriting.
In 1946, Ho Chi Minh, president of the Republic of Vietnam, made an official visit to France to discuss future relations between France and Indo-China. For six weeks from August to September, he stayed at the home of Raymond Aubrac, a leader of the French Resistance during the Second World War who was close to PierreBloch. Many of the French Resistance fighters felt and shared similar revolutionary ideals with Ho Chi Minh, making them natural allies. Starting Bid $500
Khrushchev and Kaganovich reference “collective farms” during Stalin’s reign
168. Nikita Khrushchev Document Signed. DS in Cyrillic, one page, 7.5
x 10.25, October 7, 1947. Soviet Ukraine document concerning collective farms and state grain procurements, in part (loosely translated): “To increase the safety grain procurements you must take more specific measures, both for each and all districts—by collective farms. You shall not allow the demagnetization of both yourselves and your cadres, and you shall demonstrate a really Bolshevik correct line of behavior during the struggle for the successful completion by Ukraine of the State grain procurements plan.” Signed at the conclusion by Nikita Khrushchev, and countersigned by Lazar Kaganovich. In very good to fine condition, with trimmed edges, and a brush to the end of Khrushchev’s signature. Starting Bid $200
Royalty
Scarce letter by John Dudley to his nemesis Michael Stanhope, rebuking him for mishandling naval matters for the King
169. John Dudley Letter Signed. English general, admiral, and
politician (1504–1553) who led the government of the young King Edward VI from 1550 until 1553, infamous for his scheme to enthrone his daughter-in-law, Lady Jane Grey; his titles included Viscount Lisle, Earl of Warwick, and 1st Duke of Northumberland. LS signed “John Lisle,” one page both sides, 8 x 12.25, March 6, [c. 1542-1547]. Letter from Alnwick Castle to Michael Stanhope, reprimanding him for mishandling the King’s business in Hull, in particular for having paid out sums which were already paid, including the charges of the ships pressed into His Majesty’s service at Hull. He provides instructions in order to rectify the mistakes, informing Stanhope that the ships he has sent are to be discharged: “Albeit by reason of yll weyther, they have byn so long uppon the Sees that moche of yt, ys split and lytell worthe wherin the kinges mat[jest]ie shalbe a gret loser.” In very good to fine condition, with overall soiling, and partial separation along the hinge.
The recipient of this letter, Michael Stanhope, was an influential courtier and Dudley’s arch-rival. In 1552, Stanhope was beheaded on Tower Hill, having been convicted of conspiring to assassinate Dudley and others. A rare letter by the powerful protector of the ‘boy king’ Edward VI. Provenance: The Spiro Family Collection, Part I, Christie’s London, King Street, 3 December 2003. Starting Bid $200
171. King James II Letter Signed. LS signed “Your affectionate friend, James,” one page, 8.25 x 11.75, August 24, 1663. Letter to the Earl of Teviot, as Lord High Admiral. In part: “I am informed that Major Fairbourne hath leave from you for four months absent from his charge at Tanger. I direct…that you would add two moths time more to it.” In very good to fine condition, with creasing, soiling, toning, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf. Accompanied by an engraved portrait of the king. King Charles II acquired the Moroccan city of Tangier as part of the dowry when he married the Portuguese infanta Catherine, and occupied the critical north African port with English troops. Andrew Rutherford, 1st Earl of Teviot, was a Scottish soldier sent to North Africa in 1663 to serve as governor of Tangier; he was ambushed and killed in the Battle of Tangier in 1664. Starting Bid $200
Excessively rare soldiers’ pay document signed by the ‘Boy King,’ Edward VI
170. King Edward VI Document Signed. King of England and Ireland 1547 until his death in 1553, who took the throne at the age of nine: during his reign, the realm was governed by a regency council due to his young age. When he fell sick with a terminal illness at age 15, a succession plan was drawn up to prevent the country’s return to Catholicism, resulting in the eventual proclamation of Lady Jane Grey as queen. Rare vellum manuscript DS, signed “Edward,” one page, 11 x 8.5, May 24, [1547]. Document commanding Richard Bonnye to deliver £3,000 to Sir Thomas Grey, Treasurer of Berwick, for the payment of fees and wages of the officers and soldiers of the town. Signed at the head by King Edward VI (“Edward”), and countersigned at the conclusion by Lord Protector Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset (“E. Somerset”) and others. The paper seal affixed at center remains partially intact. In very good to fine condition, with creasing, soiling, pin holes along the bottom, a small diamond-shaped hole to the left margin, and some damage to the seal. Because of his young age and early death, King Edward VI’s autograph takes a place among the rarest of all English royalty. This is just the second Edward VI document we have ever offered. Provenance: Sotheby’s, 27 June 1977. Starting Bid $1000
172. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed
Christmas Card. Royal Christmas and New Year’s card from 1956, with a gilt-embossed crown on the front, measuring 13.75 x 9.75 open, featuring a wonderful photo of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip posing with their two young children on the deck of the HMY Britannia, signed in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R., 1956” and “Philip.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered foxing, heaviest to the front of the card. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
Titanic
173. Titanic Floor Tile. Original floral-pattern floor tile manufactured for use in the first class smoking room onboard Titanic, measuring 12 x 12, nicely mounted and framed with an image of the smoking room to an overall size of 18 x 27.5. In fine condition. After workers finished laying the smoking room floor, the leftover tiles were used to tile the floors of various executive offices at the Harland & Wolff Shipyards, including the office of Titanic’s builder Mr. Thomas Andrews. In the early 1970s when Harland and Wolff was renovating their office space, a few of the remaining Titanic tiles were taken up and released for sale. Starting Bid $200
174. Roald Amundsen Signed
Photograph. Norwegian explorer (1872–1928) who navigated the Northwest Passage, fixed the position of the North Magnetic Pole, and was the first to reach the South Pole. Uncommon vintage glossy 8 x 10 press photo of Amundsen’s ship, neatly signed across the top in fountain pen. In fine condition, with light edge rippling, and three clipped corner tips. Starting Bid $200
Explorers
175. James Bruce Autograph Letter Signed. Scottish traveller and travel
writer (1730–1794) who spent more than a dozen years in North Africa and Ethiopia, and falsely claimed to be the first European to trace the origins of the Blue Nile. ALS, one page both sides, 7.5 x 8.75, October 22, 1789. Handwritten letter to bookseller George Robinson on London’s Paternoster Row, published of his five-volume ‘Travels to Discover the Source of the Nile,’ published in 1790. In part: “I have sent you what I think should be about the contents of the advertisement in the papers you will certainly have people about you who can arrange it in the proper form for the papers. The only rule I think is to…leave some parts unmentioned that they may rise upon the reader.” In very good to fine condition, with light staining and soiling, minor repairs to loss along the edge, and a small edge split to central horizontal fold. Starting Bid $300
Rare financial document signed by the lost French voyager
176. Jean-Francois de Galaupe, comte de Laperouse Document
Signed. French Naval officer and explorer whose expedition vanished in Oceania (1741–c. 1788). Rare manuscript DS in French, signed “Laperouse,” one page, 6 x 4, August 19, 1781. Financial document, in part (translated): “I beg Mr. Green to give two dollars to the American people carrying this ticket.” Laperouse adds the penultimate line in his own hand. The reverse is endorsed with a statement that the monies were received. In fine condition, with a few light stains. Starting Bid $200
American West
177. William ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Uncle
Will,” one page, 8.5 x 11, colorful illustrated ‘Buffalo Bill’ and the 101 Ranch Shows letterhead, September 22, 1916. Handwritten letter to his niece, penned less than four months before his death, in part: “This six months or more of a daily grind. I can’t stand like I used to. I think we will close the season Nov. 4th. Then I go to Denver first to see May and Louie. Then out to Cody.” Cody adds a brief postscript. Matted to an overall size of 11 x 14. In fine condition, with light staining along the top edge, and slight brushing to the signature. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
Notorious Figures
Lansky leverages insider knowledge of Nixon-era corruption: “Now with the exposure of Mitchel and Watergate would it not be a good time to expose Shapiro?”
178. Meyer Lansky Autograph Letter Signed.
ALS signed “Meyer,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, August 9, 1973. Handwritten letter with reference to Watergate and Big Oil, in part: “I just wanted to win this frame up and I’m sure it will be the same with the other one, most likely without a trial. They well know that I am innocent but they are afraid to let go now because it would be an admission of their guilt. I have to pay for it through the nose...Now with the exposure of Mitchel and Watergate would it not be a good time to expose Shapiro? We should quote his conversation with that lawyer from Haifa...I will try to do something from here to expose Shapiro and Berg…I’m sure you are aware of the letter from the President of Standard Oil to his stockholders about near East. I told you Israel cannot be complacent with our politicians, especially the one’s that are controlled by the oil interest.” In very good to fine condition, with toning to the left edge, and two file holes to the right edge. Starting Bid $200
Murder trial hat worn by Bulow and presented to his Newport police bodyguard
179. Claus von Bulow Personally-Owned and -Worn 1982 Murder Trial Hat with Additional Provenance.
Controversial British socialite (1926–2019) who achieved worldwide notoriety when he was accused of attempting to murder his wealthy wife, Sunny von Bulow, with an insulin injection that left her in a coma for nearly 28 years until her death in 2008. The case and its surrounding fallout inspired the 1990 film Reversal of Fortune, for which Jeremy Irons won the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Bulow. Brown Homburg hat personally-owned and -worn by Claus von Bulow during his 1982 murder trial in Newport, Rhode Island, and, after which, he presented as a parting ‘thank you’ gift to Newport police officer Al Conti, who served as von Bulow’s personal bodyguard during the nine-week trial. Includes a framed ‘thank you’ presentation given to Conti for his protection services during the trial, signed and inscribed by von Bulow, “To Al, Claus von Bulow,” and by others. In overall fine condition, with fading to many of the insignificant signatures on the photo, but von Bulow’s remains bold.
Accompanied by a photo of von Bulow wearing the hat outside the courtroom, as well as newspaper clippings related to von Bulow’s initial guilty charge and 30-year sentence, which features a short Boston Globe short article from the March 17th with the headline: “Von Bulow leaves his hat as the tip.” Starting Bid $200
