A rare copy of the U.S. Constitution, printed 237 years ago, is set to go under the hammer in North Carolina this Thursday evening. This exceptional document, believed to be the only one of its type in private hands, is expected to attract bids in the millions.
The Significance of This Auction
Brunk Auctions is facilitating this sale, with a minimum starting bid of $1 million already placed. The auction house has confirmed that there is no established minimum price, leaving the final sale price open to the enthusiasm of bidders.
- Historical Context: This Constitution copy was printed following the 1787 Constitutional Convention, which drafted the foundational framework for the U.S. government. It was sent to Congress under the Articles of Confederation, requesting ratification by the states.
A Unique Artifact
This document is one of approximately 100 copies printed by Charles Thomson, the secretary of Congress at that time. Notably:
- Only eight copies are known to exist today, and the other seven are held in public institutions.
- Thomson signed two copies for each of the original 13 states, certifying them for ratification.
The fate of this particular copy between its certification and its recent discovery remains a mystery.
A Remarkable Discovery
In 2022, this rare copy was uncovered during a property clearance in Edenton, North Carolina. The home once belonged to Samuel Johnston, who served as North Carolina’s governor from 1787 to 1789 and presided over the state convention that ratified the Constitution.
- The document was found inside a two-drawer metal filing cabinet, surprisingly intact and hidden under layers of dust and forgotten items.
- Alongside the Constitution is a letter from George Washington, encouraging ratification and acknowledging the need for compromises that would benefit the nation’s future.
Auction Expectations and Comparisons
Auction officials are uncertain about how high this Constitution copy might sell, given its unique nature. To put things into perspective:
- The last recorded sale of a similar document was in 1891, fetching a mere $400.
- A more recent auction in 2021 saw Sotheby’s sell one of the only 14 remaining copies of the Constitution printed for the Continental Congress for a staggering $43.2 million, setting a record for a book or document.
Additional Auction Items of Interest
The auction will also feature other historic documents, including:
- A 1776 first draft of the Articles of Confederation
- A 1788 Journal of the North Carolina Convention, which documents debates around the ratification of the Constitution and concerns about federal power versus state rights.
Postponement Due to Natural Events
Originally scheduled for September 28, the auction was delayed due to Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage in Asheville and surrounding areas. This change highlights the importance of resilience in the face of unexpected challenges, reflecting a commitment to preserving history even amid turmoil.
Conclusion: A Historic Opportunity
This rare copy of the U.S. Constitution represents more than just a historical document; it embodies the values and struggles of a fledgling nation. As it approaches auction day, anticipation builds among collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike.
Owning this piece of history is not merely about financial investment; it’s about connecting with the very foundations of American democracy. As the auction unfolds, the world watches, eager to see where this extraordinary document will find its next home.
