Quote:
Originally Posted by Wrightfan85
Didn't realize they went back that far. Always good to learn something new each day.  |
The machine Thomas Jefferson used was not an autopen and should not be considered as being in the same category. He used a machine called a polygraph. The machine had two quill/dip pens attached to a series of arms. As he wrote on a sheet of paper with one pen it would make a copy with the other pen. He did not invent it, but did use it to retain copies of all of his correspondence. It was quite advanced and when set properly it is difficult to tell the original from the copy. The autopen relies on a template of the signature without the person being present. The polygraph required the person to be present. If you visit Monticello you will see one.
As for authentically signed books I would consider purchasing books from dealers who are members of the ABAA (Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America). I have purchased some nice signed books from members and they have book shows in all of the major cities in the U.S. Like all collecting you may find a few scoundrels, but there are some very interesting people. There are also some autograph dealers who display at their shows.