DS, signed “Thomas A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, no date. Document addressed to the Commissioner of Patents. Reads, in full, “The petition of Thomas Alva Edison, a citizen of the United States, residing in Llewellyn Park, in the County of Essex, and State of New Jersey, represents: That he has made certain improvements in Phonograph, and that he is now engaged in making experiments for the purpose of perfecting the same, preparatory to applying for letters patent therefor. He therefore prays that subjoined description of his invention may be filed as a caveat in the confidential archives of the Patent Office. It is required that all communications relating to this caveat be sent to Dyer & Seely, 36 Wall St., New York City.” Signed at the conclusion in black ink, “Thomas A. Edison.” While working on improvements to the telegraph and the telephone, Edison figured out a way to record sound on tinfoil-coated cylinders. In 1877, he created a machine with two needles: one for recording and one for playback. In 1878, Edison established the Edison Speaking Phonograph Company to sell the new machine. The Edison Phonograph Company was formed on October 8, 1887, to market Edison's machine. He introduced the Improved Phonograph by May of 1888, shortly followed by the Perfected Phonograph. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one lightly through a single letter of signature, light staining along extreme edges, dark pencil notation to top right and a smaller notation to bottom. Great item relating to the incredible inventor and his favorite invention. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
