Sir Isaac Newton, one of the greatest scientists in history, is known for his groundbreaking discoveries in physics, mathematics, and astronomy.
His contributions to science and mathematics continue to influence modern science today.
As a result, there is a thriving market for Isaac Newton memorabilia, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for rare and unique items.
In this blog post, we will take a look at the 10 most valuable pieces of Sir Isaac Newton memorabilia to sell at auction.
1. Principia Mathematica First Edition:
Sir Isaac Newton's seminal work, Principia Mathematica, published in 1687, revolutionized our understanding of physics and mathematics. The first edition of this work is extremely rare and highly prized by collectors. In 2016, a copy sold at auction for £2.5 million.
2. Autograph Manuscript on Optics:from signed letters
Newton's manuscript on optics, which he wrote in the early 1700s, is a highly valuable piece of memorabilia. In 2016, a manuscript sold at auction for £3.7 million.
3. The Apple Tree Notebook:
In 1665, Newton observed an apple fall from a tree, which led to his development of the theory of gravity. The notebook in which he recorded this observation and other notes on calculus and physics is a highly prized item. In 2018, a notebook sold at auction for $1.8 million.
4. Royal Society Medal:
Sir Isaac Newton served as President of the Royal Society from 1703 until his death in 1727. The society commissioned a medal in his honor, and examples of this medal are highly prized by collectors. In 2016, a gold medal sold at auction for £380,000.
5. Newton's Telescope:
Newton designed a reflecting telescope in 1668, and examples of this telescope are highly prized by collectors. In 2016, a telescope sold at auction for £1.8 million.
6. Signed Letter:
A signed letter by Sir Isaac Newton is a highly prized piece of memorabilia. In 2011, a letter written by Newton in 1704 sold for £33,600 at auction.
7. Portrait:
Portraits of Sir Isaac Newton are highly prized by collectors. In 2016, a portrait painted by John Vanderbank in the early 1700s sold at auction for £1.1 million.
8. Manuscript on Chemistry:
Newton's manuscript on chemistry, which he wrote in the 1670s, is a highly valued item for collectors. In 2016, a manuscript sold at auction for £433,000.
9. Medal Commemorating Newton's Death:
In 1727, the Royal Society commissioned a medal commemorating Sir Isaac Newton's death. Examples of this medal are highly prized by collectors. In 2016, a gold medal sold at auction for £220,000.
10. Newton's Chair:
Newton's chair, which he used during his time as President of the Royal Society, is a highly prized item for collectors. In 2016, a chair sold at auction for £52,500.
Sir Isaac Newton memorabilia is highly collectible, with rare and unique items commanding top prices at auction.
From first editions of Principia Mathematica to autographed manuscripts, telescopes to chairs, there is a wide variety of valuable items available for collectors.
Whether you're a serious collector of scientific memorabilia or simply a fan of Newton's groundbreaking discoveries, these items are sure to add value and prestige to any collection.
About your Author:
Adrian Roose has over 30 years’ experience covering all aspects of the rare stamp & memorabilia industry during which he has sold over £50m of unique items, helping build collections for Royalty, household name celebrities and 1,000s of collectors around the world.
Adrian was previously a Director at Stanley Gibbons, a Board Member of Stampex, and Executive Director of Paul Fraser Collectibles, PFC Auctions and JustCollecting, prior to founding The Memorabilia Club.