6 Rare Old Newspapers That are an Important Part of History

While rare old newspapers used to be worth just cents when they were first printed, the pieces of history are now worth thousands. Showcasing headlines about wars starting or ending, tragedies, triumphs, and everything in between, these newspapers are a prized possession for collectors who want to hold a piece of history. Check out these six rare old newspapers below, and what makes them so special.

6. The New York Times – Moon Landing

Starting our list of rare old newspapers is The New York Times edition about the moon landing. Titled “Men Walk on Moon,” the newspaper was released on July 21st, 1969, after Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon’s surface. That morning’s edition flew off the shelves and sold out quickly, as everyone wanted to hold proof that humanity went beyond Earth for the first time in their own hands.

5. The New York Times – Civil Rights Act Signed

Fifth on our list of rare old newspapers is The New York Times covering the Civil Rights Act passing. The headline “Civil Rights Act Signed” appeared in the paper on July 2nd, 1964, which outlawed segregation and discrimination in the United States. Along with President Johnson signing the act, the paper included coverage of reactions, protests, and commentary from civil rights leaders.

4. The Times (London) – WWI Armistice

Next on our list of rare old newspapers is The Times in London announcing the World War I Armistice. London woke up to victory on November 11, 1918, receiving a paper with the text “Armistice Signed” emblazoned across the front page. After four brutal years of war, peace was here at last, and the city erupted in cheers. Collectors especially love this newspaper framed with wartime medals, often drawing higher prices during auction.

3. The New York Herald – Lincoln Assassination

Rounding out the top three rare old newspapers is President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, announced in The New York Herald. The black-bordered edition reported Lincoln’s tragic death the night prior. Printed early the next morning, the newspaper revealed raw and heartbreaking details from Ford’s Theatre. These newspapers are especially valuable, as only a few have survived intact over the years.

2. Honolulu Star-Bulletin – Pearl Harbor

Second on our list of rare old newspapers is the Pearl Harbor bombing, featured on the front page of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. Just hours after Japanese planes struck Pearl Harbor, the newspaper released a headline with “WAR!” slapped at the top. The extra edition was rushed into print by the Star-Bulletin, and many copies were handled until they fell apart. Very few surviving papers remain today, valuable due to their connection to America’s entry into World War II.

1. Charleston Mercury – Secession

Last but not least on our list of rare old newspapers is the Charleston Mercury’s edition about the Secession before the Civil War. When South Carolina left the Union, the newspaper rushed out its secession edition. Original copies are rare today, especially outside the South, and are desirable for their rarity and the historical significance of starting the Civil War.