The very earliest known example of Galileo Galilei's handwriting (referred to as #1), and one of only 4 examples sold at auction in the last 42 years. Here the leader of the Scientific Revolution acknowledges a debt repaid to him, reading, "On the 13th day of April 1595, I, Galileo Galilei have received from the above mentioned Mr. Luigi forty scudi of seven lire." Above Galileo's signed endorsement, Luigi writes, "On the fifteenth day of March 1595 in Padua by the present writing, I, Luigi de la court, name myself true and legitimate debtor of Signor Galileo Galilei, mathematician for one hundred three scudi four lire, for the account which I owe him for the payment of the room and board that he has consigned to me and my servant by past promises and sworn oaths which oblige me to pay for all his good and tranquillity and in reliance on the truth written and undersigned. The present is valid as of my own hand." Measures 7.75" x 10.5". Some creasing, folds and toning, but in very good plus condition with very bold writing by Galileo. An exceptionally scarce piece rarely available at auction.