A rare copy of the US Declaration of Independence was discovered at The National Archives in Kew, UK, in February 2026. This unique document is the only known example of its kind outside the United States, highlighting a significant historical find.
Discovery of the Declaration
The document was uncovered by volunteer Michael Scurr while cataloguing papers from Royal Navy captains of the American Revolutionary War. Scurr described the moment he realized the importance of the find, stating, "I called over to my boss and said, 'I think you need to come and have a look at this.'" This rare copy was printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, in July 1776, as part of a series intended to disseminate news of American independence.
After its discovery, Saul Nassé, chief executive of The National Archives, praised the find as "an extraordinary discovery," emphasizing its rarity and significance.
Historical Context of the Document
The Declaration was seized by the Royal Navy on Christmas Eve 1776, following the capture of the American ship Dalton off the coast of Portugal. The ship was pursued for seven hours before being captured. Dr. Graham Moore from The National Archives noted that this copy is one of only 11 surviving from the initial printings in New Hampshire.
