Two years after a private copy of the U.S. Constitution printed by Charles Thomson was found in a North Carolina home, it was sold at auction for $9 million. The 237-year-old document had been collecting dust in a metal filing cabinet in the home, which had once belonged to Samuel Johnston, the state’s governor from 1787 to 1789. Thomson had printed about 100 copies of the Constitution during the Continental Congress, and only eight are known to still exist, with seven of them in public ownership. The auctioneer, Andrew Brunk, emphasized the significance of the document, calling it a point of connection between the government and the people.
The bidding process for the U.S. Constitution copy was quick, with the document reaching its final bid of $9 million in just seven minutes. The majority of the bids were made over the phone in $500,000 intervals. Historical document appraiser Seth Kaller highlighted the rarity and importance of finding such significant historical artifacts, stating that it is a privilege to have such items at auction. The auction was originally scheduled for late September but was delayed due to Hurricane Helene. The document was printed in 1787 after the Constitutional Convention and was sent to Congress for ratification by the states.
The significance of the U.S. Constitution lies in its role as the foundation of American government and the connection between the government and its people. The auction of such a rare and historic document illustrates the value placed on preserving and celebrating the country’s history and founding principles. The finding of the private copy in a North Carolina home sheds light on the importance of preserving historical artifacts and the subsequent interest and excitement generated by their discovery. The quick and competitive bidding process for the document underscores its importance and rareness, with many bids coming in over the phone.
The discovery of the private copy of the Constitution, along with its subsequent auction and sale for $9 million, highlights the ongoing interest and reverence for America’s founding principles and history. The document’s connections to historical figures like Charles Thomson and Samuel Johnston further accentuate its significance and importance. The auctioneer’s comments on the document as a point of connection between the government and the people serve to underline the enduring impact and relevance of the U.S. Constitution in shaping the country’s government and society. The auction of such a rare and historical document serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating America’s rich history and founding principles for future generations.
Overall, the story of the private copy of the U.S. Constitution being found in a North Carolina home, subsequently sold at auction for $9 million, showcases the value placed on preserving and celebrating America’s history and founding principles. The document’s rarity, historical significance, and quick bidding process all contribute to highlighting its importance and impact on American government and society. The auction serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance and significance of the U.S. Constitution in shaping the country’s past, present, and future. The sale of the document for $9 million further emphasizes the interest and reverence for historical artifacts and the continued importance of preserving America’s rich history for generations to come.
