Skip to product information
ALBERT EINSTEIN Handwritten Autograph Mathematical Equations Not Signed PSA
$18,500.00
Guaranteed Authentic
Legendary theoretical physicist and Nobel Prize winner ALBERT EINSTEIN hand-written page of advanced mathematical calculations, penned across a League of Nations envelope addressed directly to “Monsieur le Professeur Einstein” at his Berlin residence, 5 Haberlandstrasse. The envelope bears a February 26, 1926 postmark. Einstein’s handwritten mathematical working notes are exceptionally scarce and considerably more desirable than ordinary signed correspondence.
Einstein fills much of the envelope with mathematical equations apparently exploring the relationship between classical mechanics and the emerging principles of quantum wave mechanics. Among the recognizable expressions are an exponential transformation involving Planck’s constant, derivative relationships, and the energy equation “aq² + bp² = W,” followed by additional substitutions and calculations. The mathematics appears to develop a Hamilton–Jacobi expression into a wave-mechanical form for a quadratic system resembling the harmonic oscillator.
The February 1926 date places the manuscript at the very birth of modern wave mechanics. Erwin Schrödinger published the first of his revolutionary papers introducing wave mechanics earlier that year and, on April 28, 1926, wrote directly to Einstein describing the new theory. Einstein was deeply engaged with these developments and with their relationship to the work of Planck, de Broglie, Heisenberg, and Schrödinger. These equations were therefore written during one of the most transformative periods in the history of quantum physics.
Einstein served on the League of Nations’ International Committee on Intellectual Cooperation alongside such celebrated intellectual figures as Marie Curie and Hendrik Lorentz. In July 1926, only months after this envelope was postmarked, Einstein and Lorentz were photographed together in Geneva while serving as leading members of the committee.
The handwriting has been thoroughly examined and CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION.
Einstein’s handwritten calculations include, in part:
“φ = φ₀ + nh”
followed by exponential expressions involving Planck’s constant, derivative relationships, and:
“aq² + bp² = W”
with further substitutions and calculations apparently relating energy, position, momentum, and a corresponding wave function.
The envelope exhibits expected period toning, intersecting folds, creasing, and irregular loss along the left edge from its original opening. Please review the photographs carefully for the exact condition and appearance. The envelope bears handwritten equations but is NOT signed. Envelope measures 7.5" x 9.25" in a 10" x 13" encapsulate.
Buy with confidence – we’re proud to have served a range of private collectors, scholars, and prestigious institutions. Our documents can be found and referenced in institutions such as The Charles Darwin Project, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Patrick Henry's Red Hill National Memorial, and the William McKinley Presidential Library, among many others. Please view our exceptional feedback and ratings, and our additional historic autograph and artifact auctions.
Own a remarkable, original piece of scientific history! The perfect acquisition for the advanced autograph collector, physicist, scientist, or historian of modern thought. A museum-quality centerpiece for the Executive Office, library, den, or private collection.
Sold as is, as shown.