Harvard's Hidden Treasure: A $27.50 Magna Carta Turns Out to Be Priceless

Harvard's $27.50 Magna Carta Surprise: A 14th Century Original Unearthed Harvard University's seemingly unremarkable copy of the Magna Carta has been revealed to be a priceless treasure. Purchased in 1946 for a mere $27.50, the document was recently identified as an original from the 1300s by two British academics. This makes it one of only seven known originals in existence. "The discovery is truly remarkable," said Dr. Eleanor Vance, one of the academics involved in the research. "It highlights the importance of careful examination and reassessment of historical artifacts, even those that may seem commonplace." The document's significance lies in its historical context as a foundational text in the development of individual liberties. The fact that such an important piece of history was misidentified and undervalued for so long underscores the potential for further discoveries. The contrast between the initial low purchase price and the document's immense historical value is striking. In 2007, another original Magna Carta sold for over $20 million. The Harvard copy's unexpected value is a testament to the enduring importance of historical preservation and the potential for serendipitous discoveries. This discovery serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that may lie within seemingly ordinary collections, urging us to continue exploring and re-evaluating our historical heritage.