Sir Isaac Newton Signed South Sea Bubble Document Fetches $106,000--Double its High Estimate!

A financial document signed by British physicist Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) as "Isaac Newton" changed hands for over $100,000 at our May 6th online auction.

The partly handwritten and partly printed contract dated July 13, 1720 authorized Newton’s financial adviser Joseph Safford to obtain shares in the South Sea Company. The infamous joint stock company endorsed by the British monarchy and enriched by the transatlantic slave trade would later become the textbook example of a speculation bubble. In September 1720, just three months after signing this document, South Sea shares plummeted, and Newton lost £20,000. When asked his opinion of the prospect of South Sea stock, Newton replied that while he could calculate the motions of heavenly bodies, the madness of the people defied natural laws.

Auction activity for the Sir Isaac Newton signed document was intense. Total online demand on just one of our online platforms exceeded $194,000, and auction staff were riveted as three live phone bidders competed for supremacy. The Newton finally went to an international businessman at more than double its high estimate.

We are always looking for high-quality items like these, as well as manuscripts, books, and historical relics related to general interest. Consignment terms are flexible, and 100% cash advances are available.