• A rare copy of the Declaration of Independence was found at Britain's National Archives.
• The document, known as an "Exeter Declaration," is one of only 11 surviving copies.
• Discovered by volunteer Michael Scurr during a cataloguing project, it will be displayed after conservation.
• The Declaration was captured by British forces from an American ship in 1776.
• This highlights the significance of archival research in uncovering historical documents.

A rare 1776 copy of the Declaration of Independence was discovered at The National Archives in Kew, marking it as the only known example of its kind outside of the United States. This document, known as the "Exeter Declaration," is one of just 11 copies printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, shortly after the signing of the Declaration on July 4, 1776. It was uncovered by volunteer Michael Scurr during the cataloguing of papers related to Royal Navy captains from the American Revolutionary War, according to BBC and CBS News.

The document, primarily intended for rapid distribution, was seized by the Royal Navy from the American privateer ship Dalton on Christmas Eve 1776 after a lengthy pursuit. Saul Nassé, Chief Executive of The National Archives, described the find as "an extraordinary discovery" due to its rarity and historical significance. The Declaration was archived amongst a collection listed as "another paper," failing to receive recognition of its importance at the time, as highlighted by experts from India Times, BBC, and CBS News.

Michael Scurr expressed his excitement upon realizing the document’s significance, stating, "I think you need to come and have a look at this," when he identified it during his work. After necessary restoration work, the copy will be part of an exhibition at The National Archives, providing insight into how news of American independence was distributed during the Revolutionary War, as noted by sources including India Times and BBC.

According to Dr. Graham Moore from The National Archives, the discovery of the Declaration provides valuable context about the ideals shared among the American privateers. The Dalton's capture and the subsequent archival process illustrate how the document was treated within British military operations, reinforcing the narrative of its historical journey, according to India Times and CBS News.