A rare original Magna Carta from the 1200s, purchased in 1946 by the Harvard Law School for only $27.50, was recently identified by British historians with expertise in the field as being authentic. The Magna Carta–in Latin Magna Carta Libertatum, meaning “Great Charter of Liberties”–is a historical document signed on June 15, 1215, by English King John of England near Runnymede. The document limited the king’s absolute power for the first time, requiring him to respect certain basic freedoms of his subjects and rule according to law.
The discovery came about by accident when David Carpenter, professor of medieval history at King’s College London, found the document in Harvard’s digital archives while searching for copies of the Magna Carta. Surprised, he contacted colleague Nicholas Vincent, who confirmed its authenticity.
The document, dated to the reign of Edward I, is one of only seven surviving copies of the Magna Carta from the 1200s. Several elements confirmed its originality: the handwriting, a large initial “E” (“Edwardus”) and dimensions consistent with other originals. “This convinced me that it was indeed authentic,” said Carpenter, excited about the discovery.
Before arriving at the library, the ancient manuscript had been purchased at auction by Harvard, which believed it to be a 1327 copy, and had belonged to a former World War I pilot and, before that, to two anti-slavery activists.
Scholars will be at Harvard in June for a celebration, and the document will likely be displayed to the public as one of the library’s most valuable pieces.
