Rare U.S. Constitution Copy Found in Filing Cabinet Up for Auction

A remarkable discovery in North Carolina has brought to light a rare piece of American history. A copy of the U.S. Constitution, printed in 1787, has emerged from obscurity and is now set for auction. This document, one of only eight known surviving copies, holds significant historical value as it represents a crucial moment in the formation of the United States government.

Seth Kaller, a historical document appraiser and collector, examined the well-preserved broadsheet. Despite being nearly 237 years old, the document remains in good condition, with only minor creases and discolorations. The familiar words "WE, the People" appear at the top, typed in regular font rather than the Gothic script commonly associated with the Constitution.

This particular copy is part of a limited print run of about 100 copies produced by Charles Thomson, secretary of the Congress under the Articles of Confederation. It was created after the Constitutional Convention completed drafting the proposed framework for the nation's government. The document was intended to be sent to the states for ratification by the people.

"This is the point of connection between the government and the people. The Preamble — 'we the people' — this is the moment the government is asking the people to empower them."

The document's journey from its creation to its recent discovery remains a mystery. It was found in 2022 inside a metal filing cabinet in a property once owned by Samuel Johnston, who served as governor of North Carolina from 1787 to 1789. Johnston oversaw the state convention that ratified the Constitution during his final year in office.

The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated. Seth Kaller emphasized its importance, stating, "This is a whole other level of importance." The document not only contains the Constitution but also includes a letter from George Washington urging ratification and acknowledging the need for compromise in establishing a strong national government.

The auction, scheduled for September 28, 2024, in Asheville, North Carolina, has already received a minimum bid of $1 million. However, there is no reserve price, meaning the final sale could potentially exceed expectations.

This auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and institutions to acquire a piece of American history. The last time a similar copy of the Constitution was sold was in 1891 for $400. More recently, in 2021, a different copy of the Constitution sold for a record-breaking $43.2 million at Sotheby's in New York.

The Constitutional Convention, which drafted this document, took place in Philadelphia from May 25 to September 17, 1787. It took 100 days to create the original Constitution, which contained 4,543 words, including signatures. James Madison, known as the "Father of the Constitution," played a pivotal role in its drafting and promotion.

The Constitution established the three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial. It was ratified by nine of the 13 states on June 21, 1788, and has since been amended 27 times, with the first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, added in 1791.

Other historical items accompanying this auction include a 1776 first draft of the Articles of Confederation and a 1788 Journal of the Convention of North Carolina at Hillsborough. These documents provide additional context to the debates and discussions surrounding the formation of the United States government.

As this rare copy of the Constitution goes up for auction, it serves as a tangible link to the founding of the United States and a reminder of the enduring principles that continue to shape the nation today.