Christie's New York

History of Quantum Physics [ Mechanics ] and the Theory of Relativity : The Harvey Plotnick Library - Sale 1174 October 4, 2002

New York: Christie's [ Christies ] 2002. First Edition. 8 1/4 x 10 1/2 inches. 290 pages, with 294 lots. Major auction catalog. This copy includes PRICES REALIZED and is in nice shape withe minor rubbing to the covers. Cover title notes "History of Quantum Mechanics" rather than "History of Quantum Physics" as noted on the "title page." Near Fine. Wraps. [23042]


'The sale of the Harvey Plotnick Library will constitute the first auction devoted exclusively to the nineteenth and early twentieth century development of quantum physics and the theory of relativity....The Library was intended to document the development of quantum physics and relativity theory through manuscripts and letters with scientific content of the highest historical value, books by the most famous theoretical physicists, and rare original printings of the scientific papers in which the discoveries were first published. A large number of the original publications are presentation copies or association copies of the greatest possible interest.' - from the intro The catalogue is a useful reference because the authors also tried to provide a strong historical context for the items in the library. A classic auction.

ITEM SOLD