American religious leader (1821–1910) who founded the Church of Christ, Scientist and authored the influential text outlining its doctrines, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. The church had its genesis in her recovery from a disabling fall, which stemmed, she believed, from intense Bible study. She thereafter devoted her efforts to promoting “spiritual” healing, attracting legions of followers and building an empire that included a still-well-regarded newspaper, the Christian Science Monitor, and a worldwide network of churches and “reading rooms.” Eddy and the church have elicited much controversy. Her personal wealth and the cult of personality that surrounded her has been viewed with suspicion by many, while one of the church’s principal dictates, which precludes conventional medical treatment, has become an enduring hot-button controversy in the wake of numerous deaths of children whose parents refused life-saving surgery or drugs. Scarce endorsement signature, “Mary B. G. Eddy,” on the reverse of an 8 x 2.75 bank check for $300.00 made out to her and signed by Henry E. Hosley, April 20, 1885. Hosley and his wife were among the students who studied personally under Eddy at her Massachusetts Metaphysical College in Boston. Records show the Hosleys’ enrollment in Eddy’s “primary course” on April 20, 1885—the exact date of the check. Light soiling and handling wear (including fold and a few small tears) and cancellation punch to central portion, otherwise fine condition with no faults affecting the signature. Autograph material from Eddy, not to mention examples with such a direct, significant, and early connection to her role as a teacher, is of great scarcity. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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