A Rare 1776 Printing of the Declaration of Independence Is Heading to Auction

There's no need to pull a Nicolas Cage this time.

A rare printing of the Declaration of Independence will hit the auction block on January 24 at Sotheby's. Known as the Essex Broadside, the document is expected to hammer down for up to $4 million.

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Printed in July 1776, the Essex Broadside is attributed to Robert Luist Fowle of Exeter. It's one of just 13 contemporary broadsides to be issued that year, and one of just 10 remaining examples known to exist. Fowle's version of the Declaration is unique for its use of two columns, reminiscent of biblical texts. It added italic type to the opening headline and included some misspellings because Fowle wanted to spread the news quickly: John Hancock's name has been corrected in this copy, but Charles Thomson's adds a p to his last name.

This specific copy of the founding document was previously held in two major collections. The Streeter Collection, from Thomas W. Streeter, is considered to be one of the greatest private collections of Americana ever. And the Sang Collection, from Philip and Elsie Sang, belonged to two Chicago collectors known for their interest in the Declaration of Independence and its signers .

"This rare printing of the Declaration of Independence is a cornerstone of American history, offering a glimpse into the transformative moment when the United States declared its independence," Kalika Sands, the head of books and manuscripts for the Americas at Sotheby's, said in a statement. "The Essex Broadside, one of the earliest versions to reach the public, not only captures the bold spirit of a nation in its infancy but also stands as a timeless emblem of American heritage."

If the Essex Broadside sells for its high estimate, it'll belong to the ranks of the most expensive printings of the Declaration. Sotheby's set that record back in 2000, when a Dunlap version hammered down for $8.1 million. And just last year, the second-highest price was achieved when a newspaper printing fetched $3.4 million, also at Sotheby's.

The one-off Essex sale is part of Sotheby's week-long "Visions of America" series, with auctions, exhibitions, and experiences celebrating American artistry and craftsmanship. While there are more than 500 items on offer in total, the Essex Broadside takes pride of place as one of the most captivating lots.

Cage's Ben Gates would certainly agree.

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