The most significant acquisition(s) arranged for and executed by the National Cryptologic Museum Foundation have been the eight large donations of cryptologic treasures in the David Kahn collection. In 2003, Dr. Kahn decided that his world class collection of rare books, letters, manuscripts, photographs, cryptologic related games, toys and advertising, and other cipher artifacts should go to the National Cryptologic Museum (NCM). Many of Dr. Kahn’s rarest books are on display in the NCM galleries. Thousands of his books and manuscripts now reside in the David Kahn collection in the NCM Library. And one of the priceless artifacts he donated now hangs on the wall inside of the National Security Agency. This was one of his most significant donations.
Cryptologic History:
John Wilkin’s “Mercury or the Secret and Swift Messenger” published in 1694
Donated By: Dr. David Kahn
Year Donated: 2003
One of the many rare and significant donations from Dr. David Kahn.