We the People of the United States…An exceedingly rare and important original printed, signed archetype of the Constitution of the United States was recently discovered in North Carolina, and Brunk Auctions is honored to have the privilege to offer this piece of American History for auction on September 28, 2024. This National treasure was tucked away for generations at Hayes Plantation in Edenton, North Carolina, an 1821 National Historic Landmark, and home to two of the state’s most prominent families for at least seven generations. It is one of the most important printed documents in history.

The Printed Archetype of the United States Constitution

Other rare documents from the same cache on offer include an exceptionally rare first edition of the Articles of Confederation, published in 1776 and bearing the name of Joseph Hewes; a printing of the 1808 Price-Strother Map of North Carolina, one of only about a dozen known; Thomas Jefferson and John Adams related documents, North Carolina and Georgia ephemera, colonial currency, and early silver.

Important 18th century American furniture to be sold from the storied 50 year collection of Constance and Dudley Godfrey of Milwaukee features rarities including 3 Philadelphia easy chairs, one with carving attributed to the Garvan carver; an exceptional Philadelphia dressing table with carving attributed to Martin Jugiez; important Philadelphia and Boston side chairs, including one with a history of ownership by Geroge Washington; a carved piecrust Philadelphia tea table circa 1750, and important high chests from Philadelphia, Boston, and Salem. Furniture from other estates and collections rounds out this impressive offering. From a Revolutionary and patriotic focused New England collection are rare prints and documents, early brass and delft, as well as furniture and accessories. Portsmouth New Hampshire objects include a rare high chest, chairs and other furniture, as well as documents and mourning rings. Other important art and objects from this collection were sourced from Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and top folk art and furniture dealers.

Important American paintings range from an early Sanford Gifford, a rare watercolor by George De Forest Brush, and three important landscapes from the collection of Barbara Novak; to impressionist works by Theodore Butler, Ernest Lawson, and others, and include two works by Andrew Wyeth including a rare male nude; Important Native American art features a Blackfoot War Shirt, a Santo Domingo Shield, Northwest Coast items, pictorial textiles, and much more.