A rare 710-year-old copy of the Magna Carta (aka Magna Carta Libertatum) is being reported to be sold by The Perot Foundation at Sotheby’s in New York in December. Originally issued in 1215, Magna Carta was the most significant early influence on the extensive historical process that led to the rule of constitutional law today. The Magna Carta recognized rights of the English people and restricted the power of the king. The Magna Carta was authorized and re-issued everytime a monarch succeeded King John and in the year 1297, it was enacted as law by parliament when it was re-issued by King Edward I. There are around 20 copies of the Magna Carta present today. Sotheby’s vice chairman cited that the document symbolizes mankind’s eternal quest for freedom; it is a talisman of liberty. The rare copy is valued at up to $30 million.

via Reuters99670