Lincoln Cathedral Magna Carta on display at US Library of Congress

The Lincoln Cathedral Magna Carta, a copy of the famous 1215 document that enshrined the rule of law in England, is on display at the Library of Congress in Washington DC.

Magna Carta copy
The Magna Carta limited the powers of the king

Princess Anne opened the exhibition, stating in a speech: "Nearly 800 years ago, Magna Carta gave us our first concept of a society governed by the rule of law -- a major step.

"I think anniversaries are an opportunity to look forward to what will be happening in maybe 100, 200 years.

"Will we still be celebrating Magna Carta as it reaches those milestones? It is imperative for us to instill these values, this understanding in the next generation."

The piece is one of only four surviving original copies, one of which was sold for $21.3m at Sotheby's New York in 2007.

Please sign up to our free newsletter to receive exciting news about books and manuscripts auctions.

Register to receive more in-depth articles from our dedicated team.

Register Here

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock