Stunning Images from 125 Years of National Geographic (Photos)
In honor of National Geographic's 125th birthday, Christie's is auctioning off some of the breathtaking images that have amazed and inspired readers for over a century.

Frans Lanting/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

For over one hundred years, National Geographic has taken readers to the furthest reaches of the world. From the creatures in the depths of the ocean to untouched indigenous populations, the magazine's photography has captured the minds of the curious, and always reminded us, to quote the popular Pixar movie Up, that "adventure is out there."
In honor of National Geographic's 125th brithday, Christie's is putting photographs featured in the three volume limited edition book set by TASCHEN titled, National Geographic: Around the World in 125 Years up for online auction, open now through December 3. The prize of the auction, however, is a set of the volumes that has been signed by 43 of National Geographic's most famous photographers, including Brian Skerry, William Allard, and Frans Lanting. The signed edition is one of only five; out of the remaining four, one will be given to President Obama, and three will be kept for the TASCHEN and National Geographic archives.
Here, a look at some of the incredible photographs that have amazed readers for over a century.
Left, Wilson Harbor, Falkland Islands, 1989
Frans Lanting/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Cape Kennedy, Florida, 1964
Otis Imboden/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Oil Rigs on Signal Hill, California, 1941
Anthony Stewart/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

The Matterhorn, 1912
National Geographic/Christie’s Images

The Fair of the Iron Horse, 1927
Charles Martin/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Mount Fuji, Lake Shoji, 1921
/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Vatican City, 1971
ldvay/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Migrants Return from Libya, Niger, 2008
Maitre/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Athi Plains, Kenya, 1909
National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Wheelus Field, Libya, 1957
Sisson/National Geographic/Christie’s Images

Nevsky Prospekt Street, St. Petersburg, 1971
Durrance/National Geographic/Christie’s Images
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