A manuscript believed to be an authentic version of Magna Carta, previously considered an unofficial copy, has been deemed as ”one of the world’s most valuable documents” by UK academics. Purchased by Harvard Law School for just $27.50 (then about £7) in 1946, it had remained hidden in the library for years with its true identity undisclosed. This discovery, confirmed by two medieval history professors, points to it being an incredibly rare and lost original Magna Carta dating back to 1300 during King Edward I’s reign, possibly worth millions.
Prof David Carpenter of King’s College London, who led the analysis after coming across digitized images of the document on Harvard’s website, described it as a “fantastic discovery.” He emphasized the significance of the find, stating that it should be celebrated not as a mere copy but as an original document holding immense importance in world constitutional history. The professors, after a year of research, believe the Magna Carta in question originated from the town of Appleby in Cumbria.
Offering insights into the document’s journey to Harvard, the professors traced it back to the Lowthers, a landowning family who subsequently passed it to leading abolitionist Thomas Clarkson in the 1780s. Over the years, transfers through various heirs led to its auction sale at Sotheby’s by AVM Forster Maynard in 1945. The London bookseller who acquired it later sold it to Harvard for a price much lower than its actual worth. Today, Prof Vincent suggests that it could fetch a substantial sum if sold, citing a similar Magna Carta auctioned for $21m in 2007.
Having meticulously researched the faded document, the academics worked from images obtained using ultraviolet light and spectral imaging due to its poor condition. They verified the handwriting and dimensions against other known originals from 1300 editions, ensuring its authenticity. Despite its worn-out appearance, the Magna Carta’s wording and order proved to be consistent with the established norms. Harvard Law School’s assistant dean for library services praised the scholars’ dedication, underscoring the pivotal role played by librarians in unveiling hidden treasures
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