The Declaration of Independence

          This, is the Declaration of Independence, first drafted by Thomas Jefferson. It is an old handwritten document, dating back to 1776.
          In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was written for the purpose of declaring the independence of the 13 American colonies from England to the King of England. Today, it is found in Rotunda of the National Archives Building in Washington, DC. The interesting thing is before 1952, when people decided to preserve the Declaration of Independence, it wasn't treated like a national treasure at all. It was subjected to intense light, and even had water accidentally spilled on it. Today, thanks to preservation efforts, its treatment is drastically changed. The document is sealed in a titanium case filled with argon gas to prevent erosion. At night, it is lowered 22 ft. into a vault. National Treasure wasn't exaggerating!

Declaration of Independence in the National Archives

         This document, was the mark of the American Revolution. It was written by our founding fathers to declare our independence from what they felt, was the oppressive English monarchy. It is one of the most iconic symbols of our Republic, and being such an important piece of our history and our principles, its preservation was necessary. 
          "We hold these truths, to be self evident, that all men are created equal." Even as the words on the Declaration of Independence fades, its principles will be upheld by our posterity for years to come. Our idea of equality and natural rights, were all reinforced by the Declaration of Independence.

The case is bullet proof, too.

Titanium Case and Argon Gas