History isn’t just told in books—it’s written on paper, signed in ink, and sealed with legacy. Some rare documents carry stories so powerful that collectors are willing to pay top dollar to own them. Here are 15 historic documents that sold for eye-popping amounts.
Francis Crick’s DNA Letter (1953)
A handwritten letter by Francis Crick describing his groundbreaking discovery of DNA’s structure sold for $6.1 million in 2013. Addressed to his son, the letter explains DNA’s double-helix design and importance.
Sotheby’s Constitution Sale
In 2021, a rare copy of the United States Constitution was sold at Sotheby’s for $43 million. This is one of only 13 first copies and the only one in private hands. Competitive bidding doubled its estimate.
Rothschild Prayerbook (c. 1500)
A masterpiece of Flemish illumination, the Rothschild Prayerbook sold for $13.4 million in 1999. It has intricate decorative manuscripts that feature work by leading medieval artists. Notably, Rothschild Prayerbook’s combines exquisite art and historical significance.
Bay Psalm Book (1640)
One of the first books printed in British North America was the Bay Psalm Book, and a copy of it was sold for $14.2 million in 2013. This artifact is proof of early American religious and cultural life.
“The Birds of America” by John James Audubon (1827-1838)
John James Audubon’s first edition of The Birds of America sold for $11.5 million. Audubon’s monumental ornithological work includes 435 life-sized, hand-colored bird illustrations.
St. Cuthbert Gospel (7th Century)
The St. Cuthbert Gospel, Europe’s oldest intact book, sold for $14.3 million in 2012. These manuscript’s original binding and stunning medieval craftsmanship remain remarkably preserved. Moreover, it’s a rare piece of early Christian history that reflects devotion.
Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Leicester, a collection of his scientific writings, was purchased by Bill Gates for $30.8 million in 1994. It explores water movement, fossils, and astronomy, showcasing his genius.
The Constitution and Bill of Rights (1787-1789)
In 2012, an official copy of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights sold for $10.4 million. These foundational documents outline the structure of the American government and protect individual freedoms. Only a few surviving copies of the original document exist.
Shakespeare’s First Folio (1623)
A 1623 copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio sold for $6.1 million in 2001. The collection of Shakespeare’s plays preserved many works that might have been lost, which makes it one of the most important books in English literature.
The Federalist Papers (1788)
The first edition of The Federalist Papers sold for $6.4 million. Written by three men, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, these essays advocated for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
The Gutenberg Bible (c. 1455)
A complete copy of the Gutenberg Bible sold for $5.4 million in 1987. It was the first major book printed with movable type, marking a revolutionary moment in publishing history. The craftsmanship of the Gutenberg Bible is also one of the reasons why it’s so expensive.
Principia Mathematica (1687)
Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica, which laid the foundation for classical mechanics, sold for $3.7 million. Due to its profound influence on science and mathematics, the first edition of this groundbreaking work is highly sought after.
The Book of Mormon (1830)
The Book of Mormon’s first edition sold for $2.5 million. It is central to the beliefs of the Latter-day Saint movement and has religious and historical significance. Early copies are difficult to come by, and its role in American religious history makes it a prized document.
Magna Carta (1215)
In 2007, a 1297 copy of the Magna Carta sold for $21.3 million. The Magna Carta is important to the history of democracy. There are copies housed in prestigious institutions, such as the British Library, which further limits their availability in the market.
The Canterbury Tales (c. 1477)
A rare first edition of Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales fetched $7.5 million. This medieval literary masterpiece provides insights into 14th-century life and society. Many early editions feature intricate woodcut illustrations and appealing decorative elements.
