Nobel medal for discovery of DNA auctioned

New York, April 12 (IANS) The Nobel medal awarded to Francis Crick in 1962 for his discovery of DNA was sold here at an auction for more than $2 million.

Crick won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine along with James Watson and Maurice Wilkins. The medal had been kept in a safe deposit box in California since Crick’s widow passed away, and was consigned to auction by his heirs, reported Xinhua.

“The discovery of the structure of DNA launched a scientific revolution and forever changed human understanding of life,” said Sandra Palomino, director of Historical Manuscripts for Heritage Auctions.

“This medal is the embodiment of the respect and recognition that came with that momentous breakthrough.”

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of the historic discovery of the structure of DNA and 50 years have passed since Francis Crick was awarded the Nobel Prize,” said Kindra Crick, granddaughter of the famous scientist and spokesperson for the family.

A portion of the sale will be awarded to the new Francis Crick Institute in London set to be completed in 2015.

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