This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/26/2025
Important object in the history of mankind, graphite from CP-1 (Chicago Pile 1), the first nuclear energy reactor which launched the first successful atomic energy experiment, giving life to the nuclear age. Enrico Fermi conducted the experiment on 2 December 1942 at the University of Chicago, reaching critical mass for a self-sustaining reaction at 3:25 pm, and lasting for 28 minutes. After the experiment, a coded message was relayed to James Conant, Chairman of the National Defense Research Committee, and the Manhattan Project was thus launched, leading to the creation of atomic energy bombs less than three years later.
Graphite was owned by Colonel Arthur V. ''Pete'' Peterson, a well-known and important figure in the early days of nuclear energy. Peterson ran the Metallurgical Laboratory at the University of Chicago. He was also the man dispatched to Europe to brief General Dwight Eisenhower and others, warning them that the Germans might use radioactive weapons against Allied soldiers on D-Day, leading directly to Operation Peppermint. Graphite stick measures 3'' x .75'' x .75'', encased in a lucite block measuring 3.75'' x 2.625'' x 1.375''. Graphite block is identified on front, reading ''Graphite from CP-1 / First Nuclear Reactor / December 2, 1942 / Stagg Field - The University of Chicago''. A rare and important piece of the first nuclear energy reactor that changed the course of history. Accompanied by two coins from Peterson's collection, and with an LOA from Peterson's son.