Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Lot #6248
Wernher von Braun Typed Letter Signed

"When I was 16 I decided to devote all my efforts to the task of building rockets which would enable man to visit the Moon and the Planets"

This lot has closed

Estimate: $2000+
Sell a Similar Item?
Refer Collections and Get Paid
Share:  

Description

"When I was 16 I decided to devote all my efforts to the task of building rockets which would enable man to visit the Moon and the Planets"

TLS, one page, 7.75 x 10.5, personal letterhead, May 10, 1955. Letter to Henri Corbiere, in full: "Enclosed find my answers to your inquiry dated 4th April 1955." The unsigned one-page typed enclosure is present, offering answers to four biographical questions. Braun replies regarding his scientific 'debut,' in part: "When I was 16 I decided to devote all my efforts to the task of building rockets which would enable man to visit the Moon and the Planets. I studied Physics and Engineering with this sole objective in mind." He goes on to discuss his history with the V-2 rocket, in part: "During World War II, I headed the technical organization which developed the V-2 rocket. Most of the credit I got for this was undeserved, however, since this rocket was actually the product of a joint effort of several thousand engineers, scientists and technicians. My part was merely to keep the effort coordinated." On his 'Maxim of Life,' von Braun replies: "Devote yourself, body and soul, to a noble objective and forget yourself over it. Getting completely wrapped up and absorbed in an exterior objective makes you save bills for doctors, psychiatrists, and is a dead-sure means of achieving satisfaction and personal happiness." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. A wonderful, prescient piece written fourteen years before von Braun's vision—a man on the moon—would become a reality.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Science and Technology
  • Dates: #554 - Ended December 13, 2018





This item is Pre-Certified by STEVE ZARELLI
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $50.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.