Spring 2012 - Item detail

1892 Thomas Edison Signed Letter

Sold For:
$1,067
Year:
1892
Auction:
2012 Spring
Lot #:
1443
Category:
Historical/Political/Pop Culture/Americana
One-page typed letter, dated November 14, 1892, signed by Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931), American inventor. In his letter, on "From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison. Orange, N.J." letterhead, Edison notifies his law firm ("Messrs. Eaton & Lewis") that he will no longer require its services. In full: Dear sirs: - As my law business will hereafter be a very small factor, and as the Companies with which I am affiliated will pay it, I wish to cancel the arrangement as to salary with your firm. I think that it had better end on December 31st, 1892. Please notify me if this is all right. Yours truly, Thomas Edison [signed]." Edison's signature has been flawlessly scripted in black fountain pen and grades "10." Thomas Edison letters dating from the nineteenth century are scarce and this is one of the earliest examples we can recall seeing. That fact, coupled with the outstanding signature, make this an extremely desirable letter signed by the "Wizard of Menlo Park." The letter (8 x 9.25 inches), which is lightly toned, displays two horizontal and two vertical mailing folds, as well as a small tear along the length of one of the horizontal folds. In Excellent condition overall. Matted (by means of tape on the reverse) to total dimensions of 20 x 16 inches. LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $200. Estimate $500+. SOLD FOR $1,067