Historic Copy of U.S. Constitution Uncovered, Estimated to Fetch Millions at Auction

Introduction

A rare and historically significant copy of the United States Constitution has emerged from obscurity, discovered tucked away in an old filing cabinet. This remarkable find is now set to go under the hammer, with experts estimating it could sell for millions of dollars.

The Discovery

The copy was discovered by a New York City law firm that had inherited it from a former partner. The document had long been forgotten, gathering dust in a filing cabinet. When the firm realized the significance of their find, they contacted Sotheby's auction house to arrange for its sale.

Historical Significance

The document is a first edition printing of the Constitution, published in 1788 after the Constitutional Convention. It is one of only 500 printed copies produced by John Dunlap, the official printer of the Constitutional Convention. These first edition printings are highly sought after by collectors and scholars, as they provide a tangible link to the founding of the United States.

Estimated Value

Sotheby's has estimated that the document could sell for between $15 million and $25 million. This high value is due to the document's rarity, historical significance, and excellent condition.

Provenance

The provenance of the document has been traced back to John Jay, the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Jay received the document from George Washington and it remained in his family until the mid-19th century. It then passed through several private collections before ending up in the possession of the law firm that recently rediscovered it.

Auction Details

The auction will take place at Sotheby's New York on December 13, 2023. It is expected to attract a wide range of bidders from museums and collectors.

Conclusion

The rediscovery of this rare copy of the U.S. Constitution is a significant historical event. The document stands as a testament to the birth of the United States and its enduring principles. Its sale at auction is sure to generate a great deal of interest and excitement among collectors and history enthusiasts alike.