Isaac Newton’s Handwritten Manuscript on Religion Sells for $69,870 at Auction
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Boston, MA – A handwritten manuscript by Sir Isaac Newton, exploring the origins of the Nicene Creed and the true doctrine of Christ, has sold for $69,870 at RR Auction’s Fine Autographs and Artifacts event, which concluded on December 11.
This significant theological document, written by Newton, reflects the core of his religious heresy, as he believed the ancient Church had corrupted the original doctrine of Christ. The manuscript examines Newton’s interpretation of the Trinity and argues that the term homoousios—a cornerstone of Christian theology—was mistranslated, leading to foundational misunderstandings of the Nicene Creed.
Newton’s manuscript is a powerful testament to his intellectual rigor. In it, he writes: “The Council of Nice in decreeing the son to be ὁμοούσιος consubstantial to the father, understood that the father & son were two substances. For so the word ὁμοούσιος implies. But Hosius who (a – Athanas) published the Nicene Creed translated it unius substantiæ, & this translation gave occasion to some of the Latins to take the father & son for one single substance…”
Newton provides a critical perspective on how the orthodox doctrine of the Trinity emerged from a mistranslation during the Nicene debates of 325 AD. He contended that the term, originally intended to mean “similar in substance,” was misinterpreted as “one in substance,” leading to theological doctrines he believed diverged from Christ’s true teachings.
While Newton is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to physics and mathematics, his theological inquiries are now recognized as vital to understanding his broader intellectual pursuits. His religious manuscripts, suppressed for over 200 years after his death, reveal a deeply philosophical mind grappling with the intersection of faith and reason.
“The sale of this rare manuscript underscores the enduring fascination with Newton’s contributions, not only to science but also to our understanding of religious history,” said Bobby Livingston, Executive Vice President at RR Auction.
The document is accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA and showcases Newton’s use of Greek—a feature uncommon in his religious writings. It offers invaluable insight into Newton’s hidden views during his lifetime, as publicizing such heretical beliefs could have had severe consequences.
Other notable highlights from the sale, which totaled $1,430,018, include:
- Nikola Tesla signed letter on Extraterrestrial Life sold for $55,000.
- Leonhard Euler’s rare signed mathematical manuscript sold for $48,721.
- Steve Jobs signed 1976 Apple Computer check to Quement Electronics sold for $33,219.
- Albert Einstein handwritten letter on Unified Field Theory, featuring his favorite equation “Rik = 0,” sold for $32,050.
- Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory—famously dubbed the “most dangerous toy in history,” sold for $16,500.
RR Auction’s Fine Autographs and Artifacts event began on November 22 and featured a range of extraordinary items. For more information on the sale or upcoming auctions, visit www.rrauction.com.
