A rare 1787 copy of the U.S. Constitution is set to be auctioned in North Carolina, capturing the fascination of American history enthusiasts. This document was discovered in 2022 in a North Carolina mansion previously owned by Samuel Johnson in the 18th century. It included a cover letter by George Washington. The initial bid is set at $1 million but the seller is hopeful it’ll fetch over $20 million.
The Historic Discovery
An appraiser discovered an exceedingly rare 1787 U.S. Constitution copy in a dusty file cabinet at Hayes Farm, North Carolina, in 2022. The document was signed by Charles Thomas, secretary of the Confederation Congress, accentuating its genuine historical value. This copy remained hidden away for centuries, its presence unknown until appraiser Ken Farmer unveiled its significance during a routine house sale.
The find was more than astonishing; it represented an intimate relic of American self-governance. Michael J. Gerhardt, a law professor, emphasized its significance, stating it is “probably the most important copy of the Constitution that would exist.”
Auction Details and Expectations
The auction of this valuable document is scheduled for September 28 at Brunk Auctions in Asheville, North Carolina. The document could fetch tens of millions, with a starting bid of $1 million. This particular copy is notable not only for being signed but also for being one of only eight from a print run of 100 copies.
“This is the point of connection between government and people, and it’s the moment when the idea of ‘we the people’ really takes hold,” Andrew Brunk said, illustrating the Constitution’s significance.
Incredibly rare, original printed, signed U.S. Constitution going to auction October 17, 2024. Starting bid of $1 million, without reserve #rarebooks #Constitution https://t.co/jz3m8Xwvqv
— sethkaller (@sethkaller) October 11, 2024
A Glimpse into the Auction’s Highlights
Along with the Constitution’s ratification copy, the auction will feature other historical artifacts such as the 1776 first draft of the Articles of Confederation and a reproduction of Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze’s painting “Washington Crossing the Delaware.” These items provide a contextual framework that further enhances the narrative of America’s earliest steps toward self-governance.
“To secure all rights of independent sovereignty to each and yet provide for the interest and safety for all — individuals entering into society must give up a share of liberty to preserve the rest,” George Washington’s sentiments in the cover letter accompanying this document underscores the Constitution’s spirit.
Dive into the world of rare historical finds with this impressive auction, an event that promises to capture the public’s imagination and deepen our appreciation for America’s constitutional legacy.
A 1787 document believed to be one of the first copies made of the Constitution of the United States goes up for auction this week. Found in a dusty file cabinet in an old mansion in North Carolina, its sellers predict that it will be sold for millions. https://t.co/aaHbRsLg4O
— The New York Times (@nytimes) September 24, 2024
