Charles Darwin is widely considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of science.
His theories of evolution and natural selection revolutionized our understanding of life on earth.
As a result, memorabilia associated with Darwin is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
In this blog post, we take a look at 10 of the most valuable pieces of Charles Darwin memorabilia that have been sold at auction.
1. On the Origin of Species:
Darwin's groundbreaking book, On the Origin of Species, is one of the most important scientific works ever published. In 2016, a first edition of the book sold at auction for £162,500.
2. Darwin's Beagle Voyage Collection:
Darwin's voyage on the HMS Beagle provided him with the observations and data that would form the basis of his theory of evolution. In 2009, a collection of specimens and artifacts collected by Darwin during the voyage sold for £97,250.
3. Darwin's handwritten notes:
Darwin's handwritten notes on his research and observations are highly valuable to collectors. In 2008, a notebook containing Darwin's notes on the evolution of the species sold for £200,000.
4. Darwin's walking stick:
Darwin's walking stick, which he used on his daily walks around his estate, is a highly sought after piece of memorabilia. In 2013, the walking stick sold at auction for £15,000.
5. Darwin's letters:
Darwin corresponded with many important figures of his time, including Thomas Henry Huxley and Joseph Hooker. In 2009, a collection of letters written by Darwin sold for £72,000.
6. Darwin's photograph:
A photograph of Darwin taken in 1854 is one of the most iconic images of the scientist. In 2008, a photograph of Darwin sold for £4,250.
7. Darwin's writing desk:
Darwin's writing desk, which he used to write his important works, is a highly valuable piece of memorabilia. In 2017, the desk sold at auction for £174,000.
8. Darwin's study chair:
Darwin's study chair, which he used while working in his study, is a highly sought after piece of memorabilia. In 2018, the chair sold at auction for £22,500.
9. Darwin's barnacle collection:
Darwin's study of barnacles was an important part of his research on evolution. In 2009, a collection of barnacles collected by Darwin sold for £43,250.
10. Darwin's copy of The Descent of Man:
Darwin's book, The Descent of Man, was an important follow-up to On the Origin of Species. In 2016, Darwin's own copy of the book, which he annotated extensively, sold at auction for £31,250.
Charles Darwin memorabilia is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
From his important works to personal items, these pieces of history provide a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of the most important scientists of all time.
These ten pieces of Darwin memorabilia sold at auction for hundreds of thousands of pounds, demonstrating the enduring interest in this important figure and the impact he had on our understanding of the world around us.
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.