A “copy” of the Magna Carta purchased for 25 euros is actually an original

A manuscript once thought to be an unofficial copy of the Magna Carta is now recognized as an authentic version and, thus, one of the most valuable documents in the world. This astonishing discovery dates back to 1946 when the Harvard Law School library decided to buy the document for the modest sum of $27.50 (around €25) from a veteran of the British Royal Air Force. For nearly 80 years, the document remained hidden in the library, its true nature unknown.

Fortunately, two medieval history professors from King’s College London and the University of East Anglia finally decided to take a look at it. They found evidence that confirms it is indeed the extraordinarily rare original Magna Carta from 1300. This document, drafted during the reign of King Edward I, could be worth millions of euros. It is important to note that the Magna Carta—first granted by King John in 1215—was the first document to put in writing the principle that the king and his government are not above the law in England.

In other words, the Magna Carta is a precursor to democracy and a foundation for legal systems around the world, as well as conventions regarding human rights. Additionally, a piece of amber worth a million euros had been used as a doorstop for years.