In 1868, Eben Frost redeems a silver medal at a Boston pawnshop, which he gives to Dr. W.T.G. Morton's widow, Elizabeth. The medal is inscribed to Morton, who is credited with inventing anesthesia. The story flashes back to 20 years earlier, when Morton's discovery of "letheon" revolutionized surgery by making it possible to perform operations without pain. However, Morton's secret is revealed, and he is unable to profit from his discovery. Despite this, he is rewarded with $100,000 by Congress, but only after he proves that his patent has been infringed.
The Great Moment
A 19th century dentist's remarkable journey to prove the importance of anesthesia is portrayed in this biographical drama.
