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Lot #122
Edward Jenner

The creator of the world's first vaccine

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Estimate: $2500+
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Description

The creator of the world's first vaccine

English physician and scientist (1749–1823) often called the ‘father of immunology,’ who successfully tested his smallpox inoculation in 1796. Third-person ALS signed “Dr. Jenner,” one page, 7.25 x 8.75, August 28, 1800. Letter to bookseller James Carpenter, in full: "Dr. Jenner would be much obliged to Mr. Carpenter to send him…The Physical & Med: Journal, Med: Review & Mag:, Edinburgh Practice of Physic (newly published), Ct. Rumford's last Essay on Kitchen Chimneys." In very good condition, with moderate overall toning, two small holes in the body, a tear to the left edge, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf.

In the summer of 1800, Jenner continued his successful practice of inoculating patients with cowpox as a means of inducing immunity to the more deadly small pox disease. The publication of his small pox research two years prior by the Royal Society had now gained traction, and a majority support from the scientific and medical community assisted in the widespread use of vaccinations; by the year this letter was written, vaccinations were becoming common on both sides of the Atlantic. Although Jenner’s dedicated work proved detrimental to both his private practice and personal affairs, the British Parliament in 1802 granted him £10,000 as partial compensation, and then, five years later, another £20,000. Jenner remains rare across all formats, with this being only the second letter we've ever offered.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs And Artifacts
  • Dates: #497 - Ended April 12, 2017





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