A rare surviving copy of the Declaration of Independence – a broadside edition printed shortly after the document’s signing in July 1776 – is set to be auctioned in May, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence. This isn’t the famous, handwritten parchment version, but a single-sided print meant for mass distribution among colonists.
The Purpose of the Broadside
The broadside was one of the primary ways the Second Continental Congress spread its message of independence. Unlike the carefully preserved “engrossed” copies, these prints were designed to be read aloud in town squares and posted in public spaces, rallying support for separation from Great Britain. This wasn’t about preserving a pristine historical artifact; it was about winning a revolution through public persuasion.
Why These Copies Matter
While approximately 125 broadside editions from July 1776 are known to exist, this particular one is rarer. Experts at Goldin Auction believe it originates from a publisher in Exeter, New Hampshire, and only ten examples of this specific edition remain. The document’s significance extends beyond its age. It illustrates how the revolutionaries intentionally engaged the public in their cause, using print media to bypass official channels and reach ordinary people.
Valuation and Historical Context
Goldin Auction has not released a price estimate, but recent sales suggest it will fetch a substantial sum. A similar broadside sold at Christie’s in January for nearly $5.7 million. This price reflects both the document’s rarity and its role in a pivotal moment of history.
The Declaration itself outlined 27 specific grievances against British rule, accusing the crown of establishing “an absolute Tyranny” through actions like obstructing justice and maintaining standing armies without colonial consent. The document was not just a declaration of freedom, but a detailed indictment of oppressive governance.
The auction highlights how early American leaders understood the power of accessible information in shaping public opinion. This broadside represents the birth of an idea—and the revolutionary act of putting it into the hands of the people.
