The 13 Most Prized Historical Documents Ever Sold

Historical documents hold a special place in our collective memory. They are windows into pivotal moments in history, offering insights into the minds and times of those who shaped our world. These documents are rare, often unique, and incredibly valuable. Each has a story to tell, reflecting significant cultural, political, and social milestones. In this article, we explore some of the most prized historical documents ever sold, uncovering why they are so important and why collectors treasure them.

The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci

The Codex Leicester is a collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci. It covers topics like water movement, astronomy, and fossils. It showcases da Vinci’s brilliance and curiosity. Its elusiveness comes from its age and unique content. Leonardo’s manuscripts are rare. This one is especially prized for its insight into his mind. It’s a window into the Renaissance genius. This manuscript was purchased by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million, making it one of the most expensive books ever sold.

The Magna Carta (1215)

The Magna Carta is a foundational document in the history of democracy. It established the principle that everyone is subject to the law, even the king. It guaranteed rights to individuals and limited the powers of the monarchy. Its rarity and historical significance make it highly prized. Only a few copies exist today. Each one is a vital piece of legal history. It symbolizes the fight for justice and liberty. In 2007, a copy was sold for $21.3 million, reflecting its monumental importance.

The St. Cuthbert Gospel (7th century)

The St. Cuthbert Gospel, sold for $14.3 million, is Europe’s oldest intact book. This manuscript is a stunning example of early medieval craftsmanship. Its preservation is remarkable, retaining original binding and bright, intricate illuminations. This gospel is elusive due to its age and historical importance. It reflects early Christian traditions and medieval artistry. Collectors value it for its rarity and historical significance. The book’s association with St. Cuthbert adds to its religious and cultural importance.

The Bay Psalm Book (1640)

The Bay Psalm Book was the first book printed in British North America. It holds significant cultural and historical importance. It represents the early American colonial period. Few copies have survived. Its rarity and historical context make it highly prized. It is a testament to the beginnings of American literature and printing. In 2013, a copy was sold for $14.2 million, highlighting its importance and desirability.

The Rothschild Prayerbook (c. 1500)

The Rothschild Prayerbook is a stunning illuminated manuscript. It features intricate decorations and miniatures by leading Flemish artists. It is a masterpiece of medieval art. Its elusiveness is due to its age and beauty. Few such manuscripts are in existence. It is highly valued for its artistic and historical significance. In 1999, it was sold for $13.4 million, reflecting its unique blend of art and history.

John James Audubon’s “The Birds of America” (1827-1838)

Audubon’s “The Birds of America” sold for $11.5 million. This work is famous for its life-sized, detailed illustrations of North American birds. Each plate showcases Audubon’s artistic and scientific skills. The book includes 435 hand-colored plates, making it a monumental work in ornithology. It is elusive due to its limited first edition and historical value. The book’s detailed illustrations make it a treasure for naturalists and art lovers. Owning a copy is like holding a piece of nature’s history. Its large format and exquisite artwork have made it one of the most prized illustrated books ever produced.

The Constitution and Bill of Rights (1787-1789)

The Constitution and Bill of Rights are fundamental documents in American history. They outline the framework of the government and protect individual freedoms. They are cornerstones of American democracy. Official copies are rare and highly valued. Their historical and legal importance makes them prized possessions. They symbolize the foundation of the United States. In 2012, an official printing of these documents was sold for $10.4 million, highlighting their unparalleled significance in American history.

The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer (c. 1477)

A rare first edition of Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” fetched $7.5 million. This collection of stories is foundational to English literature. Chaucer’s work captures medieval life and humor, providing insights into 14th-century society. Its elusiveness stems from its age and literary impact. Early editions are incredibly scarce, making them highly sought after by collectors. Owning this book connects collectors to literary history and the origins of English storytelling.

Shakespeare’s First Folio (1623)

Shakespeare’s First Folio is a collection of his plays, published seven years after his death. It is one of the most important books in English literature. It preserved many of Shakespeare’s works that might have been lost. Only a few copies exist. Its rarity and literary significance make it extremely valuable. It represents a cornerstone of English culture. In 2001, a copy was sold for $6.1 million, underscoring its immense value to collectors and scholars.

The Federalist Papers (1788)

A rare copy of “The Federalist Papers” sold for $6.4 million. These essays argued for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Authored by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay, they are vital to understanding American political theory and the foundation of the U.S. government. Their elusiveness lies in their historical and political importance. Early prints are rare and highly sought after. Collectors prize them for their foundational role in American governance. The essays provide a profound insight into the thoughts and arguments that shaped the nation’s democratic principles.

The Gutenberg Bible (c. 1455)

The Gutenberg Bible is one of the earliest major books printed using movable type. It represents a major milestone in printing history. Its creation marked the start of the mass production of books. Only a few complete copies exist. Its rarity and historical importance make it extremely valuable. It symbolizes the dawn of the information age. In 1987, a complete copy sold for $5.4 million, reflecting its enormous value to collectors and historians.

Isaac Newton’s “Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica” (1687)

Newton’s “Principia Mathematica” fetched $3.7 million. This work laid the foundations for classical mechanics. It’s one of the most important scientific books ever published, explaining the laws of motion and universal gravitation. The book is elusive due to its age and groundbreaking content. First editions are rare and highly sought after by collectors and scholars. It remains a cornerstone of scientific literature. Newton’s theories revolutionized science, making this work invaluable to the history of science and mathematics.

The Book of Mormon (1830)

A first edition of “The Book of Mormon” sold for $2.5 million. This religious text is central to the beliefs of the Latter-day Saint movement. It offers a unique American religious perspective, purportedly translating ancient records inscribed on golden plates. Early copies are scarce, increasing their desirability among collectors. The book’s historical and religious significance makes it a prized possession. It represents a pivotal moment in American religious history and the foundation of a major world religion.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

More from Rarest.org

The 14 Most Expensive Music Memorabilia Ever Sold

Music memorabilia offers a unique glimpse into the lives and legacies of iconic artists, often capturing pivotal moments in music history. Read More. 

The 15 Rarest Sheep Breeds and Their Wool Qualities

Exploring the world of rare sheep breeds reveals a fascinating diversity in wool quality, each offering unique characteristics that make them highly prized in the textile industry. Read More. 

1951 Wheat Penny Value Guide

The Lincoln cent, also known as the Lincoln penny, has a face value of $0.01. The U.S. Mint has struck this coin since 1909. Read More.