Rare 237-Year-Old Copy of the US Constitution Fetches $9 Million at Auction

A remarkable 237-year-old copy of the US Constitution has recently been sold at auction for an astonishing $9 million (£7 million). This historic document was found in a dusty old filing cabinet in a North Carolina building, where it had remained hidden for decades.

The copy of the Constitution, printed in 1787, originates from the time when delegates from the original colonies convened for the Constitutional Convention. This gathering resulted in the drafting of what would become the foundational document of the US federal government.

Only eight such copies are believed to exist today, with seven of those held in public institutions. The identity of the buyer, who participated in the auction via phone, has not been revealed.

Bidding for the Constitution started at $50,000 and escalated in increments, culminating in a rapid sale that lasted just seven minutes. The auction took place in Asheville, North Carolina, after being postponed due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene the previous month.

This extraordinary copy was discovered at a historic plantation once owned by Samuel Johnston, who served as the governor of North Carolina during the document’s creation. Interestingly, a copy of the Declaration of Independence found at the same site was sold in 1983 for $412,500, but the Constitution remained overlooked until its rediscovery in 2022.

Accompanying the Constitution was a significant letter signed by George Washington, who later became the first president of the United States. In the letter, Washington urged the states to ratify the new document, emphasizing the balance between individual liberty and collective safety. He wrote, “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.”

The sale of this Constitution marks a historic moment, as the last time a similar copy was auctioned was in 1891, when it sold for a mere $400. The substantial increase in value reflects both the document’s historical significance and the growing interest in rare Americana.

The successful auction not only highlights the importance of the Constitution in American history but also serves as a reminder of the rich heritage that such artifacts represent. The staggering price achieved for this particular copy underscores the ongoing fascination with the nation’s founding documents and their enduring impact on American society.

This event resonates with collectors, historians, and citizens alike, who recognize the Constitution as a cornerstone of democracy and individual rights in the United States. The newfound attention surrounding this document could inspire further interest in other historical items and their stories.

As the buyer prepares to take possession of this invaluable piece of history, the legacy of the US Constitution continues to endure, symbolizing the ideals and principles that shaped the nation. The sale not only marks a significant financial transaction but also reflects the cultural and historical importance that such documents hold.

This extraordinary auction event in Asheville serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the US Constitution and its role in the formation of the American identity. As one of the few remaining copies, it is a tangible link to the founding ideals that have shaped the country over more than two centuries.

With the sale concluded, collectors and historians will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the future of such rare documents. The record-breaking auction price achieved for this Constitution may set a precedent for the value of similar artifacts, encouraging further exploration and preservation of America’s rich historical narrative.