Albert Einstein is arguably one of the most prominent and influential figures of the 20th century. His general theory of relativity is still the description being used for gravitation in modern physics. Apart from his theory of relativity, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for his paper on the law of the photoelectric effect, which paved the way for the development of quantum theory.
Many of Einstein's personal effects and memorabilia today can be sold for thousands, if not millions, of dollars on the open market. For example, an original handwritten copy of his manuscript on the general theory of relativity fetched over $14 million.
Anything signed by Einstein himself, whether it be a postcard to a Japanese courier, or the famous photo with his tongue sticking out can go for at least six figures, if not a million. Collectors say that the important feature of these items is its content.
And so, that's why anything that includes his groundbreaking scientific discoveries sell for millions. A letter Einstein wrote to a fellow physicist which bears the famous equation "E=mc²" was valued at $1,243,000.
One of the lesser known theories that Einstein wrote was a three-page dissertation in which he tackled the idea of world peace and how it could be achieved. This he wrote in 1940, just as he had become a citizen of the United States, in the midst of war.
In the manuscript, he asserted the need for an international political organization, which will keep the balance of power in check. Five years later, the United Nations was founded, which is exactly what Einstein had written about.
Although most of his scientific manuscripts are highly valued, this one in particular was never considered for auction. Nevertheless, one can argue that is a historically significant manuscript from one of the greatest minds in history.
(Image credit: Alexander Bitar History)