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Bell, Alexander Graham (1847-1922) Original printing of patent for Bell's telephone patent no.174,465]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05257 Author/Creator: Bell, Alexander Graham (1847-1922) Place Written: Washington, D. C. Type: Document Date: 7 March 1876 Pagination: 6 p. ; 27.8 x 18.8 cm. Order a Copy

The original printing of the patent for Bell's telephone, with two pages of lithographed diagrams. Lithography by N. Peters, Photo-Lithographer, Washington, D. C. The pages have been stenciled (per Christies) 110-117.

Although proposed for telegraphic communication, Bell also forsaw commercial use for transmitting sounds such as musical notes. Bell's patent was challenged and developed into one of the longest series of litigation in the history of American patent law until the Supreme Court upheld Bell's claim (Dictionary of Scientific Biography).

Bell, Alexander Graham, 1847-1922

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