$4,700
Edison, Thomas (1847-1931), Autograph letter signed, Menlo Park, New Jersey, July 3rd, 1878, two pages on one leaf, to Dr. George W. Rachel, concerning problems with the Tin Foil phonograph, text in full: "Dear Sir, Your favor of the 27th ult(imo) was duly rec'd also the Belletristisches Journal for which please accept thanks. In regard to the complaints about the phonograph the trouble arises from the fact that there was a great demand from all over the country to see and hear it. The Phonograph Co. had machines hurriedly and imperfectly made and sent them out by parties who were not sufficiently acquainted with manner of working them, hence the complaints. I have just made three in my own shop with great improvements over any which have hitherto been used. Two of them were shipped to Australia the third is used as a sample by a firm in Newark who are making a lot for the Co. This style I consider almost perfect as a cylinder machine. I will soon have one in my laboratory and would be pleased to have you hear it. I am under obligations to you for the trouble you have taken in writing me. Very truly, T.A. Edison."
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2002-04-13