Move FM Global News

MIAMI, Florida: Ken Griffin, the CEO of Citadel and a billionaire investor announced this week he would loan his rare first-edition copy of the U.S. Constitution to the National Constitution Center (NCC) in Philadelphia for a public exhibit.

He is also lending his copy of the Bill of Rights, which he hadn’t mentioned owning before. Along with the documents, Griffin is donating US$15 million to the center—the largest gift in its history.

Griffin says America’s success shows the strength of the U.S. Constitution. As the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year, Griffin is helping more people access this important part of history.

Griffin said the Constitution’s creators built a government that has lasted over time and continues to protect the “American Dream.”

Jeffrey Rosen, CEO of the Constitution Center, said this gift will allow them to create a new gallery that tells the story of America’s founding—from the revolution to the adoption of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. It will also be the most significant update to the center since it opened in 2003.

Rosen said the Constitution matters more than ever today as government leaders debate who should have power. The center’s goal is to bring people with different views together to discuss the Constitution in a respectful, nonpartisan manner.

Griffin, a longtime Republican donor who has recently criticized Donald Trump, said the U.S. is more than just a country—it is an idea and a brand. He believes that image is being weakened.

His team said the donation and loan had been planned for years. Julia Quinn from Citadel’s philanthropy team praised the center’s work in educating people about the Constitution, both in person and online.

Griffin bought his rare copy of the Constitution for $43.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2021, with plans to share it with the public. He didn’t say when he got his copy of the 17 proposed constitutional amendments from 1789, which later became the Bill of Rights.

Caroline Klibanoff, who works with museums and young people, said that next year’s 250th anniversary presents an excellent opportunity to help young people feel connected to American history. She noted that young people today seek facts and sources—not just opinions—so showcasing the actual documents is powerful.

Griffin’s team stated that he supports American values, including freedom, democracy, and opportunity. They pointed out his recent donation to the National Medal of Honor Museum as another example of his patriotic giving.

“Ken loves America and has shown an extraordinary commitment to our founding principles,” said Cason Carter, Citadel head of public affairs. “He cares deeply about expanding access to the American Dream, which is underpinned by these historical documents, and he believes that America is well worth celebrating, particularly on its 250th anniversary.”