Neal Stephenson’s ‘Snow Crash’ Manuscript and Collectibles Head to Sotheby’s Auction, Unveiling the Metaverse’s Origins

Fast Facts:

• Sotheby’s is set to auction the original manuscript of Neal Stephenson’s iconic science fiction novel, ‘Snow Crash,’ which introduced the concepts of the metaverse and avatar.
• The sale will feature a range of physical and digital collectibles inspired by the book, including a hand-forged sword and a generative art collection titled Infocalypse.
• The digital art collection, Infocalypse, created by artist Tony Sheeder, will be sold as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on Sotheby’s Metaverse platform.
• The auction celebrates 30 years since the publication of ‘Snow Crash’ and its significant influence on the evolution of the digital world and the concept of the metaverse.
• Neal Stephenson, the author of ‘Snow Crash,’ reflects on the manuscript as a bridge between the era of video games and the internet, and highlights its cultural relevance and impact on technology today.

Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, is gearing up to showcase and auction the original manuscript of Neal Stephenson’s groundbreaking science fiction novel, ‘Snow Crash,’ which pioneered the concepts of the metaverse and avatar. This unique event will not only bring the celebrated manuscript into the spotlight but will also feature a captivating array of physical and digital collectibles that pay homage to the book’s lasting impact.

In a true celebration of ‘Snow Crash’s’ 30th anniversary, Sotheby’s will present a diverse range of items linked to the novel, including a hand-forged sword inspired by the one wielded by the book’s protagonist. Crafted by the esteemed New Zealand-based designer Wētā Workshop, this exquisite physical artifact adds a tangible connection to the beloved story. Additionally, Sotheby’s will unveil a generative art collection titled Infocalypse, created by the talented artist Tony Sheeder. Infocalypse draws inspiration from the graphic novel ‘Dioxin Posse,’ which precedes ‘Snow Crash,’ and captures the essence of the metaverse in captivating digital artwork.

Infocalypse: A Digital Art Collection Inspired by ‘Snow Crash’

Infocalypse, the digital art collection by Tony Sheeder, delves into the metaverse’s imaginative realms, offering a visually stunning experience for art enthusiasts and fans of ‘Snow Crash’ alike. This generative art collection, featuring NFTs, will be available for purchase on Sotheby’s Metaverse platform, providing a full-circle moment for Neal Stephenson, the visionary author who coined the term “metaverse.”

“Neal Stephenson’s ‘Snow Crash’ not only transported readers to a satirical cyberpunk future but also ignited a visionary spark that has influenced our digital development. This auction is a celebration of the novel’s impact and a testament to the lasting power of the metaverse.” – Daisy, Content Director

Neal Stephenson’s Manuscript: A Window into a Cyberpunk Future

The original manuscript of ‘Snow Crash’ itself serves as a time capsule, capturing the transition from the era of video games to the ubiquity of the internet in our lives. Covered in handwritten edits and typesetting notes that have now been rendered obsolete by digital advancements, the manuscript stands as a testament to the novel’s enduring cultural relevance. With estimated worth ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, this auction offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of literary and technological history.