University Archives Auction Realizes $1.2 Million
University Archives realized nearly $1.2 million in its February 18, 2026 auction, highlighted by a record breaking $250,000 sale of a first edition of The Book of Mormon (1830). All prices include a 25 percent buyer’s premium.
The result surpassed the prior auction record of $240,000 for the title, firmly establishing a new benchmark for this foundational work of American religious history.
The buyer, Adam Fleischer of Fleischer’s Auctions, disclosed that he purchased the volume for his personal collection, not for resale at present.
“While we are mostly known as the top auctioneer of rare manuscripts, we have increasingly risen in the rare book space as evidenced by the sale of The Book of Mormon and other items,” University Archives President John Reznikoff said.
Beyond the headline record, the sale demonstrated strength across multiple collecting categories:
- A signed book by Albert Einstein, estimated at $8,000-$10,000, achieved $20,000.
- A signed Act of Congress by Thomas Jefferson, estimated at $10,000-$15,000, realized over $40,000.
- An Apollo 11 crew-signed photograph from the Karsh estate, estimated at $3,000-$4,000, soared to $30,000.
The auction also performed strongly in fine photography, featuring the first offerings from the estate of celebrated portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh.
An iconic portrait of Winston Churchill, estimated at $1,800-$2,500, brought $8,750, reflecting continued robust demand for museum-quality vintage photography.
Additional works from the Karsh estate will be offered in upcoming University Archives auctions.
University Archives is actively seeking quality material for future auctions, presenting a rare opportunity for sellers. Anyone who wants to consign a single item or a collection that may be a fit for a future University Archives auction can call John Reznikoff at (203) 454-0111 or email him at john@universityarchives.com.
University Archives is located at 88 Danbury Road, Suite #2A, in Wilton, Connecticut. Collectors can learn more about University Archives at www.UniversityArchives.com.
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University Archives Auction Realizes $1.2 Million
University Archives realized nearly $1.2 million in its February 18, 2026 auction, highlighted by a record breaking $250,000 sale of a first edition of The Book of Mormon (1830). All prices include a 25 percent buyer’s premium.
The result surpassed the prior auction record of $240,000 for the title, firmly establishing a new benchmark for this foundational work of American religious history.
The buyer, Adam Fleischer of Fleischer’s Auctions, disclosed that he purchased the volume for his personal collection, not for resale at present.
“While we are mostly known as the top auctioneer of rare manuscripts, we have increasingly risen in the rare book space as evidenced by the sale of The Book of Mormon and other items,” University Archives President John Reznikoff said.
Beyond the headline record, the sale demonstrated strength across multiple collecting categories:
- A signed book by Albert Einstein, estimated at $8,000-$10,000, achieved $20,000.
- A signed Act of Congress by Thomas Jefferson, estimated at $10,000-$15,000, realized over $40,000.
- An Apollo 11 crew-signed photograph from the Karsh estate, estimated at $3,000-$4,000, soared to $30,000.
The auction also performed strongly in fine photography, featuring the first offerings from the estate of celebrated portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh.
An iconic portrait of Winston Churchill, estimated at $1,800-$2,500, brought $8,750, reflecting continued robust demand for museum-quality vintage photography.
Additional works from the Karsh estate will be offered in upcoming University Archives auctions.
University Archives is actively seeking quality material for future auctions, presenting a rare opportunity for sellers. Anyone who wants to consign a single item or a collection that may be a fit for a future University Archives auction can call John Reznikoff at (203) 454-0111 or email him at john@universityarchives.com.
University Archives is located at 88 Danbury Road, Suite #2A, in Wilton, Connecticut. Collectors can learn more about University Archives at www.UniversityArchives.com.
Popular Topics
Overstreet Access Quick Links
