The Facts
On November 9, 2026, Christie's announced it will offer the only known handwritten final draft of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech in a single-lot sale on January 22, 2027. The seven-page manuscript, rediscovered by Xernona Clayton in a desk drawer, will be exhibited publicly before the sale. Proceeds benefit the Xernona Clayton Foundation and The King Center. The draft lacks the iconic "I Have A Dream" phrase, added spontaneously during the speech, but includes the "Free at last" conclusion.
The Signal
The sale offers collectors a rare chance to own a document of profound historical significance, providing insight into Dr. King's writing process. The provenance from the family of his speechwriter adds exceptional value. The auction also highlights the enduring market for civil rights artifacts, with proceeds supporting related causes.
- People: Martin Luther King Jr., Xernona Clayton, Edward T. Clayton
- Auction Houses: Christie's
- Museums: The King Center
- Locations: New York, Washington, DC
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