On March 14, 2018, we lost one of the world’s most brilliant scientific minds. A Cambridge theoretical physicist known for his contributions to cosmology, general relativity, and quantum gravity, Professor Stephen Hawking changed the world for the better with his amazing discoveries and unwavering zest for understanding the universe.
Stephen Hawking suffered from Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and therefore spent much of his life in a wheelchair. One famous, red wheelchair he used in the 1980s and 90s along with many other important and personal items of Hawking’s, will soon be up for sale to the public.
“On the Shoulders of Giants” online auction from Oct. 31 to Nov. 8
To highlight his remarkable achievements and inspirational life story, British auction house Christie’s, with the help of Hawking’s daughter Lucy, is holding an online auction entitled “On the Shoulders of Giants” from Oct. 31 to Nov. 8.
The auction includes 22 items, including a signed copy of Hawking’s PhD thesis from 1965, which famously crashed the Cambridge University website when posted online.
What’s on the auction block from Dr. Hawking?
In addition to the leather-backed wheelchair of Dr. Hawking, other items up for bid include a copy of 1988 best seller “A Brief History in Time” (signed with Hawking’s thumbprint), medals, significant awards, and 12 of Hawking’s scientific papers. One of Hawking’s personal leather bomber jackets and a copy of the script of the 22nd season premiere of “The Simpsons,” which Hawking appeared on, also make the cut for this auction.
Proceeds from the auction will go to the Stephen Hawking Foundation, the Motor Neuron Disease Association, and Hawking’s estate. Bidders will also find possessions from Albert Einstein, Sir Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin included in the auction.
This special auction is a true testament to the life and work of Stephen Hawking, reflecting his personality and achievements in a beautiful dedication to his life.
Winners at the auction will truly take home a monumental piece of history.
Check back with the Smith & Co. Auction & Realty blog for more updates in the auction industry, and maybe attend an upcoming live auction yourself!