University Archives realized nearly $1.2 million in its February 18, 2026 auction, highlighted by a record-breaking $250,000 sale of a first edition of The Book of Mormon (1830). The result surpassed the prior auction record of $240,000 for the title, firmly establishing a new benchmark for this foundational work of American religious history.
The buyer, Adam Fleischer of Fleischer’s Auctions, disclosed that he purchased the volume for his personal collection, not for resale at present.
“While we are mostly known as the top auctioneer of rare manuscripts, we have increasingly risen in the rare book space as evidenced by the sale of The Book of Mormon and other items,” said John Reznikoff, President of University Archives.
Lot 246, Book of Mormon sold for $250,000 including buyer’s premium
Beyond the headline record, the sale demonstrated strength across multiple collecting categories (all prices include buyer’s premium):
- A signed book by Albert Einstein, estimated at $8,000–$10,000, achieved $20,000.
- A signed Act of Congress by Thomas Jefferson, estimated at $10,000–$15,000, realized over $40,000.
- An Apollo 11 crew-signed photograph from the Karsh estate, estimated at $3,000–$4,000, soared to $30,000.
The auction also performed strongly in fine photography, featuring the first offerings from the estate of celebrated portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh. An iconic portrait of Winston Churchill, estimated at $1,800–$2,500, brought $8,750, reflecting continued robust demand for museum-quality vintage photography. Additional works from the Karsh estate will be offered in upcoming University Archives auctions.
University Archives is internationally recognized for its expertise in rare manuscripts, presidential material, historical relics, autographs, and increasingly, rare books, and photography. The February 18, 2026 sale further underscores the company’s expanding presence across multiple high-level collecting categories.
Our next sale is tentatively scheduled for March 25, 2026.
We hope you can join us!
