Historic U.S. Constitution Copy Up for Auction in Asheville, NC
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — In an exciting turn of events for history buffs and collectors alike, a rare copy of the U.S. Constitution is set to be auctioned off in Asheville on September 28. This particular document, printed shortly after the Constitutional Convention in 1787, is believed to be the only one of its kind still in private hands, making it an extraordinary find!
The Story Behind the Document
The journey of this Constitution copy is quite intriguing. Recently discovered in Edenton, North Carolina, it was tucked away in a two-drawer metal filing cabinet, layered under years of dust and debris. The cabinet, believed to have belonged to Samuel Johnston, a key figure in North Carolina’s ratification of the Constitution, had been sitting untouched for years until someone finally decided to clear the clutter.
As historical document appraiser Seth Kaller carefully unrolled the broad sheet of paper, it became evident that this was no ordinary document. Despite being nearly 237 years old, it remained in remarkably good condition, with only a few creases and minor discolorations. The document bears the iconic start, “We, the People…”, but printed in standard typeface rather than the Gothic style many are accustomed to seeing.
A Bid for History
The auction will take place at Brunk Auctions, with a minimum bid of $1 million already confirmed. Yet, interestingly, there is no set minimum price that needs to be reached by the end of the auction. This particular copy is one of approximately 100 printed by Charles Thomson, the secretary of Congress, who likely certified two copies for each of the original 13 states.
Out of the 100 originally printed, only eight copies are known to exist today, with the other seven safely residing in public institutions. Kaller explained that during the ratification process, representatives from various states debated the structure of what would eventually become the United States government. The connection formed from this document remains pivotal, as it marked the moment when the government sought the people’s consent.
Mysterious Journey Through Time
What happened to this particular document from the time it left Thomson’s hand to its rediscovery in a dusty storage room remains largely unknown. What we do know is that this piece ties back to vital moments in American history, where Washington himself expressed the necessity of compromise in achieving national unity. His letter, accompanying the Constitution, eloquently stated that “individuals entering into society must give up a share of liberty to preserve the rest.”
An Unprecedented Auction
The upcoming auction raises questions about its worth, especially since the last similar document sold for just $400 back in 1891. However, prices have skyrocketed in recent years, with another copy of the Constitution fetching $43.2 million in 2021. That document, however, was intended for the Founding Fathers, whereas the one being bid on was meant to be disseminated to give power and legitimacy to the government through the people.
Apart from the Constitution, other notable items set to hit the auction block in Asheville include a first draft of the Articles of Confederation from 1776 and a journal detailing the North Carolina convention debates. These historical artifacts offer a unique perspective on the early struggles of American democracy.
What’s Next?
As the auction approaches, excitement continues to build in Asheville and beyond. This opportunity to own a piece of history has drawn attention from collectors, historians, and curious citizens interested in understanding the foundations of the United States government. It’s not every day that you get a chance to bid on something that connects us to the very beginning of our nation!
So, whether you’re a passionate collector, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the rich tapestry of America’s past, this auction is one to watch. Who knows? The future owner of this extraordinary Constitution may just be waiting to place their bid in Asheville!
