Rutherford (Ernest) The Scattering of Alpha and Beta Particles by Matter and the Structure of the Atom, first edition, offprint from the Philosophical Magazine 6th series, vol.21, pp.669-688, disbound with old tape marks and repairs/reback to spine, 1911; The Structure of the Atom, first edition, presentation copy inscribed "With the author's compliments" on upper cover, offprint from the Philosophical Magazine 6th series, vol.27, pp.488-498, original printed wrappers, slight abrasions from removal of tape to both covers near to spine, 1914; together preserved in modern cloth drop-back box with small leather book-label of Haven O'More at front and rear, [PMM 411], 8vo

⁂ The discovery of the atomic nucleus and the structure of the atom.

"In 1911, as a result of bombarding goldfoil with alpha particles, Rutherford formulated the hypothesis of the nuclear construction of the atom which is the basis of all subsequent work in atomic physics and chemistry. Most of the alpha particles passed through the foil, but some bounced back. Rutherford interpreted the bouncing in terms of his theory. Those that went through were simply passing through the planetary systems of electrons, while those that bounced back had hit, or interacted with, a nucleus." (PMM).

The second paper, a rare presentation copy, deals with certain points in connection with the nucleus theory of the atom which he had purposely omitted from the 1911 paper.

The first appearance in print of two of the most far-reaching discovery reports ever published, both from the library of Kasimir Farjans, the first with his name in pencil on upper cover, the second with some pencil annotations ?in his hand.