{"id":1015,"date":"2022-09-30T17:14:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-30T17:14:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/moneymade.wpenginepowered.com\/?p=1015"},"modified":"2025-06-03T19:05:50","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T19:05:50","slug":"historic-documents","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/","title":{"rendered":"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and are becoming an increasingly popular investment asset. But is investing in old paper worth it?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"National<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Historical documents can give us a lot of information about ourselves and the past. From the Declaration of Independence, which granted the U.S. independence, to the Magna Carta\u2014the first document to talk about human rights\u2014these thin pieces of paper have significantly impacted the world as we know it today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries\u2026some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And while these historic documents might not be secret maps that lead to ancient treasures, many are worth quite a fortune. That’s one reason relics like historical manuscripts, vintage concert tickets, and even dinosaur bones have become valuable alternative asset classes.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Get your library cards out as we dust off our old history books and find out everything we can about investing in historic documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The importance of historical documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Paper, as we know it today, was invented in China in 105 AD. Before then, important documents took the forms of clay tablets, papyrus, and vellum (animal hides). It wasn\u2019t until the printing press was invented in the 15th century that demand for paper made from wood and cotton pulp rose, although there’s evidence of paper registers and accounts being used by the 14th century in Western Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Historians rely on manuscripts from the past to get an idea of what life was like. Besides essential documents like the Treaty of Versailles or the Emancipation Proclamation, lesser-known documents\u2014such as handwritten letters from George Washington or the notebooks of Charles Darwin\u2014can also give us a glimpse into the past. Legislative documents, court cases, literary works, pamphlets, scrapbooks, drawings, and more can capture a place and time before videos existed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"post-img\"\/
Chart tracking sale prices of assets similar to a 1780 George Washington handwritten and signed letter from Dec. 1993 to April 2021 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em>
Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries or are being studied by historians at universities around the world, some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can you make money by investing in historical documents?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Historians and museums aren\u2019t the only ones who buy old documents. History buffs and avid readers may also be collectors of rare manuscripts\u2014some for a rather hefty price. Microsoft founder Bill Gates famously bought Leonardo da Vinci\u2019s Codex Leicester<\/em> for $30.8 million<\/strong> in 1994, making it the most expensive book ever sold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"post-img\"\/
A page from Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Leicester bought by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million.<\/em>
Source: Wikimedia Commons<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Documents can go for prices of tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to even a few million, although it’s hard to measure the sector as a whole. An anti-slavery letter written by Abraham Lincoln fetched a record $3.4 million<\/strong> when it was auctioned by Sotheby\u2019s in April 2008, while another Lincoln manuscript went for $3.1 million<\/strong> in March 2002.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A signed F. Scott Fitzgerald letter sold for $35,000<\/strong> in October 2013 is now worth at least $52,500<\/strong>, while a collection of historical papers from the signers of the American constitution\u2014including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison\u2014will go for at least $150,000<\/strong> at Heritage Auctions after it was purchased for $100,000<\/strong> in June 2022. And a letter from Alexander Hamilton to James Madison sold for $113,850<\/strong> in April 2021, surging past an estimated sale of just $10,000<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This goes to show that there’s a significant market for documents relating to American history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"post-img\"\/
The last paragraph of Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address with signature sold for $2.2 million in November 2015.<\/em>
Source: Heritage Auctions<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Of course, the more well-known a figure\u2014like George Washington or Leonard da Vinci\u2014the higher something signed or written by them is likely to go for. Documents or pictures from lesser-known or ordinary people or those without autographs are likely to go for less, but that doesn\u2019t mean they can\u2019t gain value over the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In general, alternative investments like historical documents serve better as long-term investments. Historical documents are illiquid, meaning they can\u2019t easily be sold if you decide to realize your returns on the investment. This is one of the main obstacles to investing in documents and other historical collectibles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to keep in mind when investing in manuscripts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re interested in owning a piece of historical paper, there’s some information to keep in mind before beginning your search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use the right tools to protect your investments from accidents<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Similar to other collectibles like fine wine, historical documents need to be protected from the elements. While a historic letter or poster might seem safe on your bookcase, it can be eaten by bookworms, destroyed by dampness and mold, or slowly fade from too much sunlight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Any historical documents should ideally be kept in archival containers with any boxes, paper sleeves, or folders touching them to preserve quality. You should also take care when handling records, as oil from your fingers can damage delicate paper. Keeping your historical collection in a cool, dry, and dark environment can help ensure their preservation and potentially increase the price, as the better the condition of a document, the more it\u2019s valued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"post-img\"\/
Chart tracking sales of 1796 plan for New York City from January 1924 to April 2016 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em>
Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Consider an appraisal<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

You may also want to get any historical collectibles you own appraised. That’ll give you an official estimate of the value of your documents, which you can also use to get your collection insured. And it helps you prepare an asking price if you want to sell it later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re buying a historical document, make sure it\u2019s authentic from a reputable seller or auction house. Search for an officially appraised document to ensure it’s authentic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do your research and keep track of the market<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

While the market for historical documents may not move as quickly as the stock market, it\u2019s crucial to stay on top of other similar items for sale. Understanding the market for historical collectibles can help you stay abreast of price movements, identify why they occur, and clue you in when particular types of documents are trending so you can keep tabs on potential investments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having sufficient knowledge in topics like American history, art, or science also helps identify opportunities to invest in historical collectibles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to invest in historical manuscripts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are many options for investing in historical manuscripts, although you\u2019ll likely want to do your research first and explore what type of documents you wish to buy and how much you want to invest. Like any investment, historical letters carry some risk, and many experts recommend that you never invest all your money in one asset class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The primary way to buy historical documents is through auction houses like Sotheby\u2019s, Christie’s, or Heritage Auctions. You can also expand your collection through resources like eBay and Etsy, although they’ll rarely be investment-grade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suppose you prefer to see documents before you invest in them. In that case, you can also search for historical documents in a specialized shop like a bookstore, especially in cities like New York. Just make sure to ask for additional information, such as any certifications or appraisals of the piece, to ensure the documents are genuine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"post-img\"\/
Chart tracking similar asset sales of Rasputin signed letter from January 1986 to July 2018 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em>
Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Other investment options in historical documents include alternative asset investing platforms like Rally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rally<\/a> lets you invest in historical documents and other collectibles like Star Wars action figures, famous comic books, and even Bored Ape NFTs. Rally\u2019s experts source and verify collections from around the world that they expect to appreciate, like a handwritten and signed letter from Rasputin. These items are securitized and publicly offered to users who can buy fractional shares and diversify their portfolios.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and are becoming an increasingly popular investment asset. But is investing in old paper worth it? Historical documents can give us a lot of information about ourselves and the past. From the Declaration of Independence, which granted the U.S. independence, to the Magna Carta\u2014the first […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":1016,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[41,21,72],"post_authors":[83],"class_list":["post-1015","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","tag-alternative-assets","tag-collectibles","tag-extra-income"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nHow to Make Money by Investing in Historic Documents | MoneyMade<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"MoneyMade\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"900\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"nick@klaymedia.com\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"nick@klaymedia.com\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/8c0c0c37e0c31b81a77ea024f0085a4b\"},\"headline\":\"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\"},\"wordCount\":1343,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Alternative Assets\",\"Collectibles\",\"Extra Income\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Articles\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\",\"name\":\"How to Make Money by Investing in Historic Documents | MoneyMade\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00\",\"description\":\"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":900},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Articles\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/\",\"name\":\"MoneyMade\",\"description\":\"Make Money Moves That Matter.\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization\",\"name\":\"MoneyMade\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Copy-of-MoneyMade-Icon-Default.svg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Copy-of-MoneyMade-Icon-Default.svg\",\"width\":96,\"height\":96,\"caption\":\"MoneyMade\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/8c0c0c37e0c31b81a77ea024f0085a4b\",\"name\":\"nick@klaymedia.com\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/55886835a570cf0ebb443912af4176b642ef8a6a841026598d95ef9d3aaf08ac?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/55886835a570cf0ebb443912af4176b642ef8a6a841026598d95ef9d3aaf08ac?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"nick@klaymedia.com\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/author\/nickklaymedia-com\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to Make Money by Investing in Historic Documents | MoneyMade","description":"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts","og_description":"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?","og_url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/","og_site_name":"MoneyMade","article_published_time":"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":900,"url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png","type":"image\/png"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"nick@klaymedia.com","Est. reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/"},"author":{"name":"nick@klaymedia.com","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/8c0c0c37e0c31b81a77ea024f0085a4b"},"headline":"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts","datePublished":"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/"},"wordCount":1343,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png","keywords":["Alternative Assets","Collectibles","Extra Income"],"articleSection":["Articles"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/","url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/","name":"How to Make Money by Investing in Historic Documents | MoneyMade","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png","datePublished":"2022-09-30T17:14:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-06-03T19:05:50+00:00","description":"Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and carry significant impact. But how do they perform as an investment asset?","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png","width":1200,"height":900},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/historic-documents\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Articles","item":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/articles\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#website","url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/","name":"MoneyMade","description":"Make Money Moves That Matter.","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#organization","name":"MoneyMade","url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Copy-of-MoneyMade-Icon-Default.svg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Copy-of-MoneyMade-Icon-Default.svg","width":96,"height":96,"caption":"MoneyMade"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/8c0c0c37e0c31b81a77ea024f0085a4b","name":"nick@klaymedia.com","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/55886835a570cf0ebb443912af4176b642ef8a6a841026598d95ef9d3aaf08ac?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/55886835a570cf0ebb443912af4176b642ef8a6a841026598d95ef9d3aaf08ac?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"nick@klaymedia.com"},"url":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/author\/nickklaymedia-com\/"}]}},"fig_blocks":[{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p><strong><em>Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and are becoming an increasingly popular investment asset. But is investing in old paper worth it?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p><strong><em>Historic documents can tell us a lot about the past and are becoming an increasingly popular investment asset. But is investing in old paper worth it?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\" alt=\"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts\"\/><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Money_Made_Historical_Letters_Main_MO_03bbe3b539.png\" alt=\"National Treasures: How To Invest In Historical Manuscripts\"\/><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Historical documents can give us a lot of information about ourselves and the past. From the Declaration of Independence, which granted the U.S. independence, to the Magna Carta\u2014the first document to talk about human rights\u2014these thin pieces of paper have significantly impacted the world as we know it today.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Historical documents can give us a lot of information about ourselves and the past. From the Declaration of Independence, which granted the U.S. independence, to the Magna Carta\u2014the first document to talk about human rights\u2014these thin pieces of paper have significantly impacted the world as we know it today.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/quote","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries\u2026some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries\u2026some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>And while these historic documents might not be secret maps that lead to ancient treasures, many are worth quite a fortune. That's one reason relics like historical manuscripts, vintage concert tickets, and even dinosaur bones have become valuable alternative asset classes.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>And while these historic documents might not be secret maps that lead to ancient treasures, many are worth quite a fortune. That's one reason relics like historical manuscripts, vintage concert tickets, and even dinosaur bones have become valuable alternative asset classes.<\/p>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n\n<\/blockquote>\n","innerContent":["\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">",null,"\n\n",null,"<\/blockquote>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Get your library cards out as we dust off our old history books and find out everything we can about investing in historic documents.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Get your library cards out as we dust off our old history books and find out everything we can about investing in historic documents.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-importance-of-historical-documents\">The importance of historical documents<\/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-importance-of-historical-documents\">The importance of historical documents<\/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Paper, as we know it today, was invented in China in 105 AD. Before then, important documents took the forms of clay tablets, papyrus, and vellum (animal hides). It wasn\u2019t until the printing press was invented in the 15th century that demand for paper made from wood and cotton pulp rose, although there's evidence of paper registers and accounts being used by the 14th century in Western Europe.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Paper, as we know it today, was invented in China in 105 AD. Before then, important documents took the forms of clay tablets, papyrus, and vellum (animal hides). It wasn\u2019t until the printing press was invented in the 15th century that demand for paper made from wood and cotton pulp rose, although there's evidence of paper registers and accounts being used by the 14th century in Western Europe.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Historians rely on manuscripts from the past to get an idea of what life was like. Besides essential documents like the Treaty of Versailles or the Emancipation Proclamation, lesser-known documents\u2014such as handwritten letters from George Washington or the notebooks of Charles Darwin\u2014can also give us a glimpse into the past. Legislative documents, court cases, literary works, pamphlets, scrapbooks, drawings, and more can capture a place and time before videos existed.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Historians rely on manuscripts from the past to get an idea of what life was like. Besides essential documents like the Treaty of Versailles or the Emancipation Proclamation, lesser-known documents\u2014such as handwritten letters from George Washington or the notebooks of Charles Darwin\u2014can also give us a glimpse into the past. Legislative documents, court cases, literary works, pamphlets, scrapbooks, drawings, and more can capture a place and time before videos existed.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1_e337def144.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking sale prices of assets similar to a 1780 George Washington handwritten and signed letter from Dec. 1993 to April 2021 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1_e337def144.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking sale prices of assets similar to a 1780 George Washington handwritten and signed letter from Dec. 1993 to April 2021 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries or are being studied by historians at universities around the world, some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Although many key documents remain in national archives and libraries or are being studied by historians at universities around the world, some investors are choosing to invest in these ancient artifacts.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-you-make-money-by-investing-in-historical-documents\">Can you make money by investing in historical documents?<\/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-you-make-money-by-investing-in-historical-documents\">Can you make money by investing in historical documents?<\/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Historians and museums aren\u2019t the only ones who buy old documents. History buffs and avid readers may also be collectors of rare manuscripts\u2014some for a rather hefty price. Microsoft founder Bill Gates famously bought Leonardo da Vinci\u2019s <em>Codex Leicester<\/em> for <strong>$30.8 million<\/strong> in 1994, making it the most expensive book ever sold.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Historians and museums aren\u2019t the only ones who buy old documents. History buffs and avid readers may also be collectors of rare manuscripts\u2014some for a rather hefty price. Microsoft founder Bill Gates famously bought Leonardo da Vinci\u2019s <em>Codex Leicester<\/em> for <strong>$30.8 million<\/strong> in 1994, making it the most expensive book ever sold.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/2_89e76baac2.jpg\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A page from Leonardo da Vinci's Codex Leicester bought by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million.<\/em><br><em>Source: Wikimedia Commons<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/2_89e76baac2.jpg\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A page from Leonardo da Vinci's Codex Leicester bought by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million.<\/em><br><em>Source: Wikimedia Commons<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Documents can go for prices of tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to even a few million, although it's hard to measure the sector as a whole. An anti-slavery letter written by Abraham Lincoln fetched a record <strong>$3.4 million<\/strong> when it was auctioned by Sotheby\u2019s in April 2008, while another Lincoln manuscript went for <strong>$3.1 million<\/strong> in March 2002.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Documents can go for prices of tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to even a few million, although it's hard to measure the sector as a whole. An anti-slavery letter written by Abraham Lincoln fetched a record <strong>$3.4 million<\/strong> when it was auctioned by Sotheby\u2019s in April 2008, while another Lincoln manuscript went for <strong>$3.1 million<\/strong> in March 2002.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>A signed F. Scott Fitzgerald letter sold for <strong>$35,000<\/strong> in October 2013 is now worth at least <strong>$52,500<\/strong>, while a collection of historical papers from the signers of the American constitution\u2014including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison\u2014will go for at least<strong> $150,000<\/strong> at Heritage Auctions after it was purchased for <strong>$100,000<\/strong> in June 2022. And a letter from Alexander Hamilton to James Madison sold for <strong>$113,850<\/strong> in April 2021, surging past an estimated sale of just <strong>$10,000<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>A signed F. Scott Fitzgerald letter sold for <strong>$35,000<\/strong> in October 2013 is now worth at least <strong>$52,500<\/strong>, while a collection of historical papers from the signers of the American constitution\u2014including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison\u2014will go for at least<strong> $150,000<\/strong> at Heritage Auctions after it was purchased for <strong>$100,000<\/strong> in June 2022. And a letter from Alexander Hamilton to James Madison sold for <strong>$113,850<\/strong> in April 2021, surging past an estimated sale of just <strong>$10,000<\/strong>.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>This goes to show that there's a significant market for documents relating to American history.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>This goes to show that there's a significant market for documents relating to American history.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/5_7986e111c9.jpg\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The last paragraph of Abraham Lincoln's second inaugural address with signature sold for $2.2 million in November 2015.<\/em><br><em>Source: Heritage Auctions<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/5_7986e111c9.jpg\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The last paragraph of Abraham Lincoln's second inaugural address with signature sold for $2.2 million in November 2015.<\/em><br><em>Source: Heritage Auctions<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Of course, the more well-known a figure\u2014like George Washington or Leonard da Vinci\u2014the higher something signed or written by them is likely to go for. Documents or pictures from lesser-known or ordinary people or those without autographs are likely to go for less, but that doesn\u2019t mean they can\u2019t gain value over the long term.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Of course, the more well-known a figure\u2014like George Washington or Leonard da Vinci\u2014the higher something signed or written by them is likely to go for. Documents or pictures from lesser-known or ordinary people or those without autographs are likely to go for less, but that doesn\u2019t mean they can\u2019t gain value over the long term.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>In general, alternative investments like historical documents serve better as long-term investments. Historical documents are illiquid, meaning they can\u2019t easily be sold if you decide to realize your returns on the investment. This is one of the main obstacles to investing in documents and other historical collectibles.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>In general, alternative investments like historical documents serve better as long-term investments. Historical documents are illiquid, meaning they can\u2019t easily be sold if you decide to realize your returns on the investment. This is one of the main obstacles to investing in documents and other historical collectibles.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-things-to-keep-in-mind-when-investing-in-manuscripts\">Things to keep in mind when investing in manuscripts<\/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-things-to-keep-in-mind-when-investing-in-manuscripts\">Things to keep in mind when investing in manuscripts<\/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in owning a piece of historical paper, there's some information to keep in mind before beginning your search.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in owning a piece of historical paper, there's some information to keep in mind before beginning your search.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":{"level":4},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-use-the-right-tools-to-protect-your-investments-from-accidents\"><strong>Use the right tools to protect your investments from accidents<\/strong><\/h4>\n","innerContent":["\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-use-the-right-tools-to-protect-your-investments-from-accidents\"><strong>Use the right tools to protect your investments from accidents<\/strong><\/h4>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Similar to other collectibles like fine wine, historical documents need to be protected from the elements. While a historic letter or poster might seem safe on your bookcase, it can be eaten by bookworms, destroyed by dampness and mold, or slowly fade from too much sunlight.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Similar to other collectibles like fine wine, historical documents need to be protected from the elements. While a historic letter or poster might seem safe on your bookcase, it can be eaten by bookworms, destroyed by dampness and mold, or slowly fade from too much sunlight.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Any historical documents should ideally be kept in archival containers with any boxes, paper sleeves, or folders touching them to preserve quality. You should also take care when handling records, as oil from your fingers can damage delicate paper. Keeping your historical collection in a cool, dry, and dark environment can help ensure their preservation and potentially increase the price, as the better the condition of a document, the more it\u2019s valued.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Any historical documents should ideally be kept in archival containers with any boxes, paper sleeves, or folders touching them to preserve quality. You should also take care when handling records, as oil from your fingers can damage delicate paper. Keeping your historical collection in a cool, dry, and dark environment can help ensure their preservation and potentially increase the price, as the better the condition of a document, the more it\u2019s valued.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/3_9e0f8c7d11.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking sales of 1796 plan for New York City from January 1924 to April 2016 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/3_9e0f8c7d11.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking sales of 1796 plan for New York City from January 1924 to April 2016 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":{"level":4},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-consider-an-appraisal\"><strong>Consider an appraisal<\/strong><\/h4>\n","innerContent":["\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-consider-an-appraisal\"><strong>Consider an appraisal<\/strong><\/h4>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>You may also want to get any historical collectibles you own appraised. That'll give you an official estimate of the value of your documents, which you can also use to get your collection insured. And it helps you prepare an asking price if you want to sell it later.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>You may also want to get any historical collectibles you own appraised. That'll give you an official estimate of the value of your documents, which you can also use to get your collection insured. And it helps you prepare an asking price if you want to sell it later.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>If you\u2019re buying a historical document, make sure it\u2019s authentic from a reputable seller or auction house. Search for an officially appraised document to ensure it's authentic.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>If you\u2019re buying a historical document, make sure it\u2019s authentic from a reputable seller or auction house. Search for an officially appraised document to ensure it's authentic.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":{"level":4},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-do-your-research-and-keep-track-of-the-market\"><strong>Do your research and keep track of the market<\/strong><\/h4>\n","innerContent":["\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-do-your-research-and-keep-track-of-the-market\"><strong>Do your research and keep track of the market<\/strong><\/h4>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>While the market for historical documents may not move as quickly as the stock market, it\u2019s crucial to stay on top of other similar items for sale. Understanding the market for historical collectibles can help you stay abreast of price movements, identify why they occur, and clue you in when particular types of documents are trending so you can keep tabs on potential investments.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>While the market for historical documents may not move as quickly as the stock market, it\u2019s crucial to stay on top of other similar items for sale. Understanding the market for historical collectibles can help you stay abreast of price movements, identify why they occur, and clue you in when particular types of documents are trending so you can keep tabs on potential investments.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Having sufficient knowledge in topics like American history, art, or science also helps identify opportunities to invest in historical collectibles.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Having sufficient knowledge in topics like American history, art, or science also helps identify opportunities to invest in historical collectibles.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/heading","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-invest-in-historical-manuscripts\">How to invest in historical manuscripts<\/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-invest-in-historical-manuscripts\">How to invest in historical manuscripts<\/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>There are many options for investing in historical manuscripts, although you\u2019ll likely want to do your research first and explore what type of documents you wish to buy and how much you want to invest. Like any investment, historical letters carry some risk, and many experts recommend that you never invest all your money in one asset class.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>There are many options for investing in historical manuscripts, although you\u2019ll likely want to do your research first and explore what type of documents you wish to buy and how much you want to invest. Like any investment, historical letters carry some risk, and many experts recommend that you never invest all your money in one asset class.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>The primary way to buy historical documents is through auction houses like Sotheby\u2019s, Christie's, or Heritage Auctions. You can also expand your collection through resources like eBay and Etsy, although they'll rarely be investment-grade.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>The primary way to buy historical documents is through auction houses like Sotheby\u2019s, Christie's, or Heritage Auctions. You can also expand your collection through resources like eBay and Etsy, although they'll rarely be investment-grade.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Suppose you prefer to see documents before you invest in them. In that case, you can also search for historical documents in a specialized shop like a bookstore, especially in cities like New York. Just make sure to ask for additional information, such as any certifications or appraisals of the piece, to ensure the documents are genuine.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Suppose you prefer to see documents before you invest in them. In that case, you can also search for historical documents in a specialized shop like a bookstore, especially in cities like New York. Just make sure to ask for additional information, such as any certifications or appraisals of the piece, to ensure the documents are genuine.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/image","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/4_8a01881a28.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking similar asset sales of Rasputin signed letter from January 1986 to July 2018 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/4_8a01881a28.png\" alt=\"post-img\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chart tracking similar asset sales of Rasputin signed letter from January 1986 to July 2018 (not adjusted for inflation).<\/em><br><em>Source: rallyrd.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p>Other investment options in historical documents include alternative asset investing platforms like Rally.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p>Other investment options in historical documents include alternative asset investing platforms like Rally.<\/p>\n"]},{"blockName":null,"attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\n","innerContent":["\n\n"]},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/discover\/rallyrd\">Rally<\/a> lets you invest in historical documents and other collectibles like Star Wars action figures, famous comic books, and even Bored Ape NFTs. Rally\u2019s experts source and verify collections from around the world that they expect to appreciate, like a handwritten and signed letter from Rasputin. These items are securitized and publicly offered to users who can buy fractional shares and diversify their portfolios.<\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/discover\/rallyrd\">Rally<\/a> lets you invest in historical documents and other collectibles like Star Wars action figures, famous comic books, and even Bored Ape NFTs. Rally\u2019s experts source and verify collections from around the world that they expect to appreciate, like a handwritten and signed letter from Rasputin. These items are securitized and publicly offered to users who can buy fractional shares and diversify their portfolios.<\/p>\n"]}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1015","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1015"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1015\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1016"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1015"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1015"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1015"},{"taxonomy":"post_authors","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneymade.io\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_authors?post=1015"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}