In a surprising turn of events, a rare copy of a foundational American document emerged from a filing cabinet and fetched an impressive sum at auction.

A re-discovered copy of the U.S. Constitution was sold for $11 million after it was found at a North Carolina farm, as the New York Post reports.

The journey of this historic document began at Hayes Farm, located in Edenton, North Carolina.

Known for its rich history, the farm spans 184 acres and was once the property of Samuel Johnston, an influential figure who served as the governor of North Carolina from 1787 to 1789.

Johnston played a pivotal role during his tenure by overseeing the state's ratification of this very Constitution.

In 2022, the unsuspected copy of the U.S. Constitution was uncovered in an old metal filing cabinet on the property.

Remarkably, this document is one of only a few surviving original copies sent by Congress to each state for ratification. Its historical significance and rarity played a key role in the excitement surrounding its auction.

Delayed Auction Follows Discovery at Historic Plantation

Initially, the copy of the U.S. Constitution was set to be auctioned on Sept. 28. However, unforeseen circumstances caused by Hurricane Helene led to a postponement of the sale.

Despite the delay, the auction proceeded smoothly at Brunk Auctions in North Carolina. Over the span of just seven minutes, the bidding process unfolded rapidly.

The enthusiasm for such a unique artifact was palpable as interest surged among potential buyers.

Andrew Brunk, the owner of Brunk Auctions, expressed his awe at the swift conclusion of the auction, noting the brevity of the entire process. "It took just seven minutes for the nearly 237-year-old document to clinch its hammer price," he recounted.

A Competitive Bidding War Unfolds During Sale

The bidding competition comprised primarily phone participants, with a handful of online contenders and one buyer present in person. The heated exchanges among the bidders underscored the document's unique appeal.

As the final hammer fell, the copy of the U.S. Constitution was secured for $9 million. However, additional premiums brought the total sale price to a significant $11,070,000. Such a substantial final sum reflects the magnitude of historical importance associated with this piece.

Brunk encapsulated the remarkable journey of the document, remarking on its transition "from a filing cabinet in Edenton, North Carolina, to being sold for $11 million." The sentiment echoed the gravity of the event and the unexpected origins of this invaluable artifact.

Buyer Remains Anonymous Despite Public Sale

Despite the public attention garnered by the sale, the identity of the winning bidder remains undisclosed. The anonymity of the buyer adds another layer of intrigue to the already captivating story.

The auction reflects the dynamic interest and high stakes involved in historic document collecting. Documents like this copy of the U.S. Constitution hold intrinsic value not just for their age, but for their connection to foundational events in American history.

The sale stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with American history and the tangible artifacts that bring its narratives to life.

Through this auction, a seemingly ordinary day at a North Carolina farm transformed into a noteworthy event on the calendar of significant historical transactions.