Here's why:
* Recognition in his time was limited: The concept of prestigious scientific awards as we know them today was not established during Newcomen's era (1663-1729).
* Focus on practicality: Newcomen's invention was primarily valued for its practical applications in pumping water from mines. While it revolutionized mining, it was not celebrated as a groundbreaking scientific achievement in the way later inventions were.
* Lack of formal education: Newcomen was a blacksmith, not a formally trained engineer or scientist, which might have limited the recognition he received from academia.
It wasn't until much later, after his death, that his invention was fully recognized for its importance. His legacy is cemented by his contributions to the development of the steam engine, a technology that would eventually revolutionize industry and transportation.