Albert Einstein’s atomic bomb letter sells for $3.9 million at auction

A copy of the letter signed by Albert Einstein, which played a pivotal role in the development of the first atomic bomb, was sold for $3.9 million at a recent Christie’s auction. Originally addressed to US President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939, the letter warned about the potential for nuclear weapons and urged the US to begin its own research. This call to action ultimately led to the Manhattan Project and the creation of the atomic bomb during World War II.

A warning that changed history

The letter, now part of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library’s collection in New York, was Albert Einstein’s attempt to inform President Roosevelt of Germany’s possible nuclear ambitions. In it, he explained recent advancements in nuclear physics, noting that uranium could become “a new and important source of energy” that could lead to “extremely powerful bombs.” Einstein, who fled Europe alongside fellow physicist Leo Szilard due to Adolf Hitler’s rise, felt compelled to act as Germany’s potential nuclear threat grew.

This communication played a key role in persuading the US government to fast-track research into nuclear fission, setting in motion the Manhattan Project, which ultimately led to the development and deployment of atomic bombs.

Peter Klarnet, Christie’s senior specialist in Americana, books, and manuscripts, called the letter “one of the most influential letters in history.” Written in 1939, it significantly altered the trajectory of the war and human history by sparking the nuclear arms race.

Albert Einstein’s “great mistake”

Though instrumental in advancing the US nuclear program, Albert Einstein later expressed regret over his involvement. He called his participation in the creation of nuclear weapons his “one great mistake.” After witnessing the destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Einstein reportedly said, “Woe is me,” acknowledging the catastrophic human toll of nuclear warfare.

A prized collector’s item

The copy of the letter sold at auction was the only version in private hands. It was once part of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s collection, purchased for $2.1 million in 2002. Before that, the letter belonged to publisher Malcolm Forbes, who acquired it from physicist Leo Szilard’s estate.