The 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Robert F. Curl, Jr. for his groundbreaking discovery of fullerenes, a class of carbon nanoparticles revolutionizing various fields of applied science was auctioned by Nate D. Sanders for $442,891 tonight. It received four bids.

First uncovered in 1985 by Curl and his colleagues, fullerenes have since played a pivotal role in transforming multiple facets of modern science.

Resembling a hollow soccer ball or the iconic geodesic dome pioneered by architect Buckminster Fuller, fullerenes have emerged as a cornerstone in scientific innovation. Their versatile applications span across energy, disease treatment, and even human longevity.

Robert Curl, a distinguished scholar who has contributed significantly to the academic landscape, received a Bachelor of Science from Rice Institute (now Rice University) in 1954 and earned his doctorate in chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1957. His illustrious career includes serving as the Pitzer-Schlumberger Professor of Natural Sciences Emeritus at Rice University, where he conducted pioneering research on fullerenes.

Upon receiving the Nobel Prize, Curl's dedication to his craft remained unwavering, exemplified by his modest request for a bike rack to be installed closer to his office at Rice University.

Curl passed away in 2022 at the age of 88.

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Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Robert F. Curl, Jr sells for $442,871(https://artdaily.cc/news/167917/Nobel-Prize-in-Chemistry-awarded-to-Robert-F--Curl--Jr-sells-for--442-871)

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Nobel Prize in Chemistry Awarded to Robert F. Curl, Jr. -- Curl Discovered ''Buckyballs'', a Carbon Nanoparticle Transforming Energy, Disease Treatment & Space Exploration via Space Elevators(https://www.natedsanders.com/LotDetail.aspx?inventoryid=66781)