University Archives' auction, Sept. 9, features items signed by Einstein, Marilyn Monroe, Churchill

WILTON, Conn. - Aug. 26, 2026 - PRLog -- An Albert Einstein autograph letter written in German, signed and sent from Berlin, Germany in 1926; a Marilyn Monroe early 1946 "Photographic Model Release" signed as "Norma Jean Dougherty" when she was just 19; and a monumental World War II map boldly signed by Winston Churchill are a few of the highlight lots in University Archives' online-only Rare Autographs, Manuscripts, Books & Photographs auction set for Wednesday, September 9.

The auction, starting promptly at 10am Eastern Time, is filled with items in many categories. The catalog in its entirety – all 409 lots – is up for viewing and bidding now on the University Archives website -- UniversityArchives.com -- plus the popular platforms Invaluable.com, Auctionzip.com and LiveAuctioneers.com. Telephone and absentee bids will also be accepted.

"The September 9^th auction is loaded with outstanding historical material ranging from autographs, documents, and archives, to books, photos, artwork, and relics," said John Reznikoff, president and owner of University Archives. "Major collecting categories include U.S. Presidents, Science, Civil Rights, World Leaders, Early America, Entertainment, Literature, and Music."

The Albert Einstein signed letter was written to his close friend and colleague Michele Besso. In it, Einstein contends that simple experiments are not sufficient in themselves; instead, they should reveal an underlying order, rational structure, and deeper truth -- in short, one of "God's secrets." Einstein argues this in the context of rejecting the work of the Swiss chemist Johann Gottfried Beck, who Einstein claimed used "apothecary's methods." Estimate: $30,000-$40,000

Marilyn Monroe signed the early 1946 "Photographic Model Release" as "Norma Jeane Dougherty," using the last name of her first husband, James Dougherty, and before the creation of her iconic stage name. PSA/DNA slabbed and graded NM-MT 8 and with an accompanying LOA. The contract between Monroe and photographer Richard C. Miller dates from April 30, 1946, when the starlet was just 19 years old. Photos from this photo shoot show Monroe on the beach, in a swimming pool, and in a ski chalet. Estimate: $17,000-$22,000

A George Washington letter signed, dated May 22, 1779 from military headquarters at Middlebrook, New Jersey, is written to Brigadier General James Clinton regarding logistical preparations essential to the success of the imminent Sullivan Expedition, a frontier campaign deep into the Iroquois Nation in which the Continentals planned to employ "scorched earth tactics" similar to ones the British had used against the Patriots. Estimate: $22,500-$35,000

To lean more, visit www.UniversityArchives.com.