In a historic moment that sent shockwaves through the world of rare documents, a private collector recently acquired a copy of the US Constitution from 1787 for an astounding $9 million at an auction in North Carolina. The document, printed 237 years ago and sent to the states for ratification, is one of only eight known surviving copies – and the only one thought to be held in private hands.
Uncovering a Hidden Treasure
The journey of this rare constitution copy is shrouded in mystery. Printed by Charles Thomson, secretary of the ineffective first American government under the Articles of Confederation, it was likely one of two copies sent to each of the original 13 states. Thomson personally signed each document, essentially certifying them.
Fast forward to 2022, when the copy was discovered in a long-neglected room in a house once owned by Samuel Johnston, governor of North Carolina from 1787 to 1789. Amid dusty chairs and bookshelves, it lay inside a squat, two-drawer metal filing cabinet, its historical significance unbeknownst to its finders.
A Fierce Bidding War
As the gavel fell at Brunk Auctions, the atmosphere was electric. Bids came in at $500,000 intervals, mostly over the phone, as collectors vied for the chance to own this piece of American history. A hush fell over the room as the price climbed to $8.5 million, then $9 million.
“Just another second or two. Savor it a little bit selling here at $9m,” remarked Andrew Brunk, auctioneer and auction house owner.
The auction, originally slated for September 28, had been delayed due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. “It’s a privilege to have it here. It’s been quite a ride,” Brunk added, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to handle such a significant document.
A Letter from George Washington
Accompanying the constitution on the broadsheet is a letter from George Washington, urging ratification. In it, he acknowledges the need for compromise and the relinquishing of certain state rights for the nation’s long-term well-being – a poignant reminder of the challenges faced in the early days of the United States.
Other Notable Sales
The constitution copy was not the only high-value item sold at the auction. A watermarked 1776 first draft of the Articles of Confederation fetched $1 million, while an hournal documenting North Carolina’s 1788 ratification debates went for $85,000.
These sales highlight the increasing value and rarity of early American historical documents. In 2021, Sotheby’s sold one of only 14 remaining copies of the constitution printed for the Continental Congress and constitutional convention delegates for a record-breaking $43.2 million.
A Testament to Enduring Ideals
As collectors and historians marvel at the $9 million constitution copy, it serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring ideals upon which the United States was founded. The document, painstakingly crafted by the Founding Fathers, laid the groundwork for a nation that has withstood the test of time.
The sale also raises intriguing questions: Are there more hidden treasures waiting to be discovered in attics, basements, and forgotten rooms across America? Will we see even more astronomical prices for rare historical documents in the future? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the allure of owning a piece of history continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
As this remarkable copy of the US Constitution begins a new chapter in its storied existence, it stands as a testament to the vision, courage, and compromise that birthed a nation – and the enduring fascination we hold for the relics of our past.
