Famous chemist's effects auctioned

The collection includes a rare George VI Order of Merit and his personal microscope as well as a casket with the Freedom of the Borough of Chesterfield scroll.

The December 6 auction is expected to raise more than £10,000.

Sir Robert, born at Rufford House Farm, Wadshelf, attended Chesterfield Grammar School and would go on to invent the use of the curly arrow to represent electron movement and is also known for discovering the molecular structures of morphine and penicillin.

He was appointed Professor of Pure and Applied Organic Chemistry in the School of Chemistry at the University of Sydney in 1912

Bakewell-based auctioneer Vivienne Milburn said: “The archive of diplomas, awards and medals is being sold by Robert Robinson’s family and offer an opportunity to attain one of the most prestigious collections of chemistry medals held by a single individual including a copy of the Nobel Prize.

“The auction is expected to attract a good deal of interest from around the world.

“The legacy of Robert Robinson is of immense importance and reflected in the number of awards presented to him and the number of buildings and laboratories named after this extraordinarily characterful organic chemist known for his rather unassuming brown suit and trilby hat.”

For more information phone 01629 640210 or visit www.viviennemilburn.co.uk.