Harvard Law Paid $27 for a Copy of Magna Carta. Surprise! It’s an Original.

In a remarkable discovery, two British scholars have identified a manuscript held in Harvard Law School’s library for over 80 years as one of the seven original copies of the Magna Carta dating from 1300. This revelation sheds new light on the historical significance of Harvard’s collection and its role in preserving legal heritage.

The Magna Carta, signed by King John of England in 1215, is widely regarded as a foundational document in the development of constitutional law. It established the principle that the king was subject to the law, not above it, and set out a new political order. Its influence extends beyond England, inspiring legal systems worldwide, including the United States. The Magna Carta’s enduring legacy is evident in its impact on the American Bill of Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. (the-independent.com)

Harvard Law School’s library houses an extensive collection of medieval manuscripts, including numerous copies of the Magna Carta. These manuscripts, dating from around 1300 to 1500, are part of the library’s efforts to conserve and digitize its early manuscript collection. (curiosity.lib.harvard.edu)

This discovery not only enhances our understanding of the Magna Carta’s dissemination but also underscores the importance of institutions like Harvard Law School in safeguarding and studying historical documents that continue to influence modern legal systems.