In 2014, Britannic Auctions sold an antique miniature Bible for $3,506. This book, dating to circa 1660, contains the entire New Testament written in shorthand. It reflects the contributions of Jeremiah Rich, a 17th-century English stenographer known for advancing shorthand writing.
The miniature New Testament showcases Rich’s ingenuity. Published using his shorthand system, the book’s compact size demonstrates how advances in stenography could condense large texts into accessible formats. This innovation reflected the era’s growing interest in portable and practical written materials.
Jeremiah Rich and the Art of Shorthand
Jeremiah Rich is credited with pioneering shorthand systems that influenced written communication during the 17th century. Trained by his uncle William Cartwright, Rich later credited him as the shorthand system's originator. Rich’s version, however, gained widespread use and recognition, cementing his place in the history of stenography.
Rich’s shorthand system was celebrated for its practicality and versatility. It garnered admiration from prominent figures, including the philosopher John Locke. His shorthand techniques became mandatory at Philip Doddridge’s academy.
Auction Values for Jeremiah Rich Works
Jeremiah Rich’s works rarely appear at auction, making them highly sought after by collectors. While most records date back to the late 20th century, notable sales include:
- Dominic Winter Book Auctions, 2024: A New Testament in shorthand by Jeremiah Rich, circa 1673, sold for GBP 1,200 (approximately $1,500 USD in 2024).
- Dominic Winter Book Auctions, 2021: "The Whole Book of Psalms in Meter According to the Art of Short-Writing" (1660) sold for GBP 2,880 (approximately $3,980 USD in 2021).
- Sotheby’s, 1990: A shorthand Bible by Jeremiah Rich, circa 1756, sold for GBP 495 (approximately $926 USD, based on the 1990 exchange rate of GBP 1 = USD 1.87).
- eBay, 2013: A very rare 1659 first edition of Jeremiah Rich’s stenographic miniature Bible and Psalms sold for $615, despite some missing pages.
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