1902 Thomas Edison Signed 4x Handwritten Document, Selling Patent to Marconi. PSA

• Authorization to sell U.S. Patent No. 465971 - first form of wireless communication
• Patent sold by Thomas Edison to Guglielmo Marconi, who used it to invent the radio
• Signed four times by Thomas Edison
• Completely handwritten by Edison on his Official Laboratory Letterhead
• Document and all four signatures in outstanding condition
• Pivotal document in the history of wireless communication
• A one-of-a-kind piece of history, ideal for serious collectors and historians

This remarkable historical document represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of modern communication. 

Handwritten and personally signed by the legendary inventor Thomas Edison, it authorizes the sale of U.S. 

Patent No. 465971, which pertains to his groundbreaking invention of "Means for Transmitting Signals Electrically". This patent laid the foundation for long-range wireless communication, revolutionizing the way the world would eventually communicate over vast distances. Today, we take this convenience for granted. Communication is now effortless thanks to modern technology, but 120 years ago, this concept was unfathomable. 

 

Edison was issued Patent No. 465971 in 1891, long before those of contemporary inventors like Nikola Tesla. Often consumed by a multitude of projects, Edison decided to sell his patent as a way to allow the technology to be developed further under the direction of someone who could dedicate more attention to it. This document stands as a testament to Edison’s incredible foresight and willingness to step aside for the sake of progress in a field he could no longer fully devote himself to, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a genius inventor who understood when to pass the torch for the greater good of innovation. Ultimately in 1902, Edison sold the patent to the famous inventor Guglielmo Marconi, who used it for his work in creating the first transatlantic wireless telegraphy system and ultimately his invention of the radio, a technology that would change communication and the world forever. 

 

Just as impressive as the historical context of this document is the fact that it is signed by Thomas Edison four times! As the original holder of the patent, Edison extended the terms of the sale and authorized each extension with another signature. All four signatures (and the handwritten terms) are presented in black fountain ink and feature Edison’s iconic “umbrella” style signature. 

 

This historic document - presented on official Edison letterhead “From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison. 

Orange, N.J.”  - serves as a direct link to the birth of wireless communication and radio. Its rarity is amplified by the fact that Edison’s signatures – marking his personal involvement and oversight of this momentous transaction – are present in four distinct places, underscoring the importance of this transaction in the development of modern communication technologies. 

 

A true collector’s item, this piece of history is perfect for any enthusiast of innovation, technology, or American history. It offers a unique glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential inventors of all time, while also marking the beginning of a new era in global communication. 

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