Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:20 pm GMT
Rare Copy of U.S. Constitution Discovered, Heading to Auction in North Carolina
In an extraordinary turn of events, a long-lost copy of the United States Constitution has been uncovered in a filing cabinet in North Carolina, prompting a highly anticipated auction on September 28 in Asheville. This particular document, believed to be the only one of its kind still in private hands, is expected to fetch a minimum bid of $1 million. The discovery sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history and connects the present to the nation’s founding ideals.
A Historic Find in Edenton
Recently, while clearing out a historic property in Edenton, North Carolina, workers stumbled upon this invaluable document. Once owned by Samuel Johnston, North Carolina’s governor from 1787 to 1789, the Constitution was found tucked inside a small metal file cabinet in an unkempt room piled high with old furniture. The document has remained protected in relatively good condition despite being nearly 237 years old, displaying only minor creases and discolorations.
Seth Kaller, a professional document appraiser, carefully examined the broad sheet, which was originally printed after the Constitutional Convention concluded drafting the government’s framework in 1787. “This is a whole other level of importance,” Kaller stated, emphasizing the significance of the Constitution as a direct connection between the government and the citizenry. The document features the familiar Preamble starting with “We, the People,” marking a foundational request for the citizens’ support and empowerment.
The Auction: What to Expect
The auction, hosted by Brunk Auctions, has already generated excitement within the collecting community, with an opening bid set at $1 million. There is no stipulated minimum price, which could lead to a dramatic bidding war among collectors and historians alike. Andrew Brunk, the auctioneer, expressed optimism about the potential outcome of the sale, noting the lack of comparable items and the deep historical roots of this particular Constitution.
Only eight copies of this document are known to exist, all of which were originally disseminated to facilitate the ratification process by the states. This particular copy was likely one sent to representatives in North Carolina, placing it at the very heart of the nation’s founding discussions.
Image caption: A discovered copy of the U.S. Constitution on display as it heads to auction.
Contextualizing the Discoveries
The discovery is particularly poignant given the historical context—at a time when representatives debated the framework of governance that would define the nation. Notably, the document contains a letter from George Washington advocating for ratification, emphasizing the need for compromise for the nation’s long-term unity and stability. Washington’s words resonate as he highlighted that individuals must relinquish certain liberties for the greater good of the country.
Historically, the last auction of a similar Constitution document occurred in 2021, fetching a staggering $43.2 million. This emphasizes the increasing value and interest in rare historical artifacts, especially those tied to America’s founding principles.
What Lies Ahead for the Document?
The current owner of this extraordinary piece of history remains undisclosed, as they have chosen to keep their identity private during the auction process. As the event approaches, collectors and history enthusiasts are eager to see just how much this rare document will command in the auction market. The excitement surrounding this find illustrates the continuing interest in early American documents and reflects the ongoing relevance of the Constitution in today’s society.
As the auction day gets closer, everyone will be watching Asheville. That’s where a special piece of history will find a new owner. We don’t know yet if it will stay with its current owner or be given to someone new who wants to take care of it for future generations.
