May 2018 Auction Ends Thursday, May 31st, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2018
The Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, awarded in 2005 to Thomas C. Schelling, the foremost expert on game theory as it applies to nuclear weaponry and international relations, and whose theory is particularly relevant now. Schelling is famously credited with the concept of ''uncertain retaliation'', expressed in his 1960 book, ''The Strategy of Conflict'', in which he argued that unpredictability, a higher tolerance for risk, and a willingness to feign irrationality in decision making can lead, if performed correctly, to a superior position over one's opponents -- especially with nuclear weapons. This so-called ''Madman Theory'' was used by Richard Nixon in his negotiations with the Soviet Union and North Vietnam, and many experts have stated that both Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un are currently using the strategy in negotiating with each other. Schelling was also one of the "founding fathers" of the modern, leadership-oriented John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, and made wide-ranging policy contributions helping to curtail smoking, confront racial segregation, and address climate change.
Nobel medal, made of 18K gold, prominently bears the image of Alfred Nobel upon the obverse, with ''Sveriges Riksbank Till Alfred Nobels Minne 1968'' applied in raised letters, encircling the medal. ''T.C. SCHELLING MMV'' is engraved to the rim, and the medal's reverse contains the north star emblem of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, with the phrase ''Kungliga Vetenskapsakademien'' applied. Housed in the original red leather case with Schelling's name gilt stamped, and also accompanied by the original Nobel Prize certificate awarded to Schelling. Medal weighs 6 oz. and measures 2.625'' in diameter, consistent with the Nobel Prizes awarded in 2005. Case measures 5.5'' x 5.5'' x 1.25''. Certificate is housed in custom leather portfolio, then housed in suede-lined clamshell case measuring 9.75'' x 14.75'', beautifully accented with Schelling's initials in calligraphy. All items are presented in near fine condition.
The proceeds from the sale of this auction will be donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center, consistent with the wishes of Thomas Schelling.
Nobel Prize Awarded to Thomas Schelling in 2005 -- One of the Foremost Experts in Game Theory Regarding Nuclear Arms Strategy -- Proceeds of Sale Will Be Donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center
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