search
Get Started
search
U.S. Constitution (Engrossed Copy) - Inscription
zoom_in Click to enlarge

U.S. Constitution (Engrossed Copy)

language

description U.S. Constitution (Engrossed Copy) Overview

The engrossed copy of the U.S. Constitution represents the foundational document of American governance. This parchment, signed on September 17, 1787, by thirty-nine delegates in Philadelphia, outlines the structure and principles of the United States government. It is a vital historical artifact preserved at the National Archives, accessible for study and research by legal scholars, historians, and anyone interested in understanding the origins of American democracy.

help U.S. Constitution (Engrossed Copy) FAQ

Who physically wrote the engrossed copy of the U.S. Constitution?

The final engrossed copy was hand-written by Jacob Shallus, an assistant clerk to the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He completed the massive, four-page parchment over a single weekend for a fee of $30.

When and where was the engrossed copy of the U.S. Constitution signed?

The document was signed by 39 delegates on September 17, 1787. This historic signing took place at the Constitutional Convention held inside Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

What material was the engrossed U.S. Constitution written on?

The document was written on parchment, which is animal skin prepared specifically for writing. It consists of four separate sheets of this durable material stitched together.

Where is the engrossed copy of the U.S. Constitution kept today?

The original parchment is housed in the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. It is displayed alongside the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights in a protected, argon-filled rotunda.

Reviews & Comments

Write a Review

rate_review

Be the first to review

Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.

Save to your list

Save your favorites and follow how their scores change over time.

Save favorites
Get updates
Compare scores

Already have an account? Sign in

Compare Items

See how they stack up against each other

Comparing
VS
Select 1 more item to compare