Albert Einstein
Princeton, NJ, November 19, 1940
Einstein Requests Ride to Visit with Prominent Jewish Philanthropist, Henry Morgenthau, Sr.
TLS

Albert Einstein typed letter signed and Henry Morgenthau, Sr. signed photo. 1p of his embossed stationery, 8.5" x 11"; November 19, 1940. A brief letter to Henry Morgenthau, Sr. requesting a ride for an upcoming visit. Signed, "A. Einstein" and affixed to a larger photo album sheet. Together with a TLS and SP by Morgenthau. Includes a typed English translation of the Einstein letter. Einstein letter has slight buckling and adhesive staining from mounting, with a clean bright signature.

Einstein's letter reads: "I would very much like to come next Sunday, the 24 November to your house and ask only for a friendly message regarding when I should be picked up."

It is well documented that Einstein did not drive a car. As this letter illustrates, even the prominent Morgenthau (father of FDR's Secretary of the Treasury) had to make accommodation for the famous scientist. Although there is no historical record of a relationship between the two men, they shared a common interest in philanthropic Jewish causes, in particular the refugee crisis resulting from Nazi persecution. Multiple letters have appeared on the market in which Einstein makes reference to Morgenthau being able to provide assistance in some fashion or another. In a letter to his son circa 1930 to 1940 that sold at Christie's, Einstein writes that he will speak to him about helping to get a position for him in the United States.

Together with an 8" x 10" black and white photo of Morgenthau signed on the lower margin and a TLS to a banker in Wisconsin sending good wishes and appreciation for a recent visit.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 12" x 9"
  • Medium: TLS

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July 28, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
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