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Griffin Buys Second Rare Constitution Copy
4 May
Summary
- Billionaire Ken Griffin acquired another rare Constitution copy.
- He now owns the only two known private copies.
- The document is on display in New York for independence anniversary.
Financier Ken Griffin has acquired a second rare printing of the U.S. Constitution, bringing his total to two known surviving copies in private ownership. The first copy, purchased for $43.2 million in 2021, is exhibited at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The newly acquired 'Van Sinderen' copy will be showcased at the South Street Seaport Museum in Lower Manhattan, beginning May 27, in honor of America's 250th independence anniversary.
This second acquisition highlights the rarity of these documents, with only 14 known copies surviving, most held by institutions. The 'Van Sinderen' copy was slated for a Sotheby's auction in December 2022 with an estimate of $20 million to $30 million, but the sale was canceled. Griffin Catalyst later confirmed its private acquisition.
The document will be featured in "The Promise of Liberty" exhibition, which includes other significant historical items like an early printing of the Bill of Rights and drafts of "I Have a Dream." This exhibition is part of broader national commemorations of the 250th anniversary, with various institutions across the country displaying foundational American artifacts.
