The National Constitution Center is proud to display a first edition Stone Engraving of the Declaration of Independence, a rare copy of the first public printing of the U.S. Constitution, and a reproduction of one of the 12 surviving copies of the Bill of Rights. The original Bill of Rights, which was exhibited at the Center between 2014 and 2017, is now at The New York Public Library. It will be displayed on a rotating basis to the public in both Pennsylvania and New York for the next 100 years.
Constituting Liberty: From the Declaration to the Bill of Rights
See America’s founding documents up close in the George H.W. Bush Gallery.
Explore the Exhibit
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Exhibit EntrancePhoto courtesy of the National Constitution Center
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Exhibit Feature with Words from the Founding DocumentsPhoto courtesy of the National Constitution Center
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Stone Engraving of the Declaration of IndependencePhoto courtesy of the National Constitution Center
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Illustrations of the First 10 AmendmentsPhoto courtesy of the National Constitution Center
Exhibit Interactive
Constitutional Rights: Origins and Travels
Which documents and ideas influenced the drafters of the Bill of Rights and how have rights been expressed around the world? Explore these interactives now!
Thank you to our partners:
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
New York Public Library
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Support
Visit the Exhibit for Free
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Explore more about these founding documents
Constitution Daily
On this day, the Declaration of Independence is officially signed
August 2, 1776 is one of the most important but least celebrated days in American history, when 56 members of the Second Continental Congress started signing the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia.
We the People Podcasts
The Declaration of Independence and its Influence on the Constitution
Exploring the influence of the Declaration of Independence on political and constitutional movements throughout American history – Danielle Allen of Harvard University and Ken Kersch of Boston College join host Jeffrey Rosen.
Videos
Constitution Hall Pass: The Bill of Rights
Explore the compelling story of our Constitution’s first ten amendments.
Constituting Liberty: From the Declaration to the Bill of Rights
Exhibit Pamphlet
At the National Constitution Center, you will find rare copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. These are the three most important documents in American history. But why are they important, and what are their similarities and differences? And how did each document, in turn, influence the next in America’s ongoing quest for liberty and equality? Jeffrey Rosen and David Rubenstein provide additional historic context for the exhibit.
