One of the first copies of the Declaration of Independence is going up for auction as America turns 250
Called a Broadside, it was one of the copies that was read aloud in public spaces when America declared itself free
With America observing the semiquincentennial anniversary of its independence this year, there are a number of events planned to celebrate the event, but one of the most unexpected might be coming from Goldin Auctions.
This spring, as America celebrates its 250th birthday (well, kind of), the auction house will put a number of antiquities from the Revolutionary period up for sale, including one of the first printed copies of the Declaration of Independence. The copy is known as a Broadside (single pages printed only on one side) and was used at the time to be read at town gatherings and posted in public places to spread the news of the historic proclamation.
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Only 125 broadsides from July 1776 are known to be in existence today. And there are just 10 of this particular edition.
Goldin has not offered any estimates on what the rare document will fetch at auction. But another Declaration broadside that appears to be in a similar condition as Goldin's sold for just under $5.7 million earlier this year at Christie's auction house.
“We’re just outside Philadelphia, the birthplace of our country, with an original Declaration of Independence,” said Ken Goldin, CEO and founder of Goldin. “This remarkable piece of history will be lot number one, and we are looking for major consignments to include alongside it in our USA 250 Auction.”
Goldin has not unveiled other items in the auction, but says it "will include memorabilia related to the most significant leaders in American history and tell the story of the United States from founding to modern day." All totaled, more than 400 items are expected to be sold.
Bidding for the broadside and other items will start in May and continue through June.