Distinguished German physicist (1845–1923) who discovered X-rays in 1895, for which he was awarded the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901. Scarce ALS in German, signed “W. C. Rontgen,” on a 4 x 3.5 gilt-edged card, September 2, 1911. Letter of condolence to atomic physicist Rudolf Ladenburg on the death of his father. In full (translated): “Only now have I received news of the death of your dear father. Please accept my sincere condolences. In so far as I know, the deceased endured great physical suffering in the last few months. Therefore death may have been a deliverance for him. For you the passing of your father will always mean a great loss!” In fine, bright condition. Ladenburg studied with Rontgen, who was his doctoral adviser. He later went on to work with Einstein and John von Neumann in the US where he was involved in the Manhattan Project and was also in charge of placing exiled physicists in jobs. RR Auction COA.
