Rediscovered: A Priceless Piece of History at a Bargain

At Harvard Law School, a seemingly ordinary copy of the Magna Carta from 1300 is showcased.

Perhaps it's time to sift through those forgotten stacks of paperwork you have.

Recent examinations have confirmed that a so-called 'unofficial' version of the Magna Carta, kept unnoticed in Harvard Law's archives for years, was actually among the most priceless documents worldwide.

This remarkable find was acquired for merely $27.50 back in 1946 by the law school.

Professor David Carpenter from King's College, London, found the document in Harvard's digital library. Reflecting on its appearance, he thought, 'My heavens, this seems to be an original…' Collaborating with Nicholas Vincent from the University of East Anglia, they used various advanced methods like spectral imaging and ultraviolet light to affirm that Harvard's Magna Carta is authentic.

Originally enacted by King John in 1215, the Magna Carta granted rights to everyone, including commoners and royalty, ensuring that even monarchs were subject to the law. Successors reissued it until Edward I in 1300, and scholars date Harvard's version to this last issuance.

Out of the original 200 documents, the BBC reports only 24 have withstood the test of time. One from 1297 is exhibited at the National Archives in Washington, DC. It serves as a reminder of how the Magna Carta inspired the framers of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. Philanthropist David M. Rubenstein, who bought it for $22 million, refers to it as his most worthwhile investment.

Imagining his surprise this week: 'Could I have acquired one for just $27.50?'

The allure of unearthed treasures often rests in their financial worth. But amidst legal debates over executive power and individual rights, it's worthwhile to revisit the profound words that gave the Magna Carta its historical significance.

Consider Clause 39:

"No free person shall face imprisonment or loss of rights or property, nor be made an exile or outlaw, except through fair judgment by peers or the law of the land."

The true value of the Magna Carta lies in these enduring principles.