Antiqued Reproduction of the United States Declaration of Independence

This item is a modern souvenir reproduction of the United States Declaration of Independence, designed to simulate the appearance of an 18th-century manuscript. The document is printed on heavy, chemically treated paper that has been artificially distressed to exhibit a dark tan or 'tobacco' brown color, mimicking centuries of oxidation. Physically, the paper shows intentional signs of aging, including wavy edges, simulated water staining (pronounced dark circular spots), and artificial creasing through the center horizontal line to suggest historical folding. The typography features the iconic copperplate script and large 'John Hancock' signature characteristic of the original 1776 document. Unlike original 18th-century vellum, which is translucent and supple, this paper appears stiff and brittle with a surface texture typical of mass-produced historical replicas often sold at museum gift shops or through educational catalogs. There is visible wear including feathered, uneven edges and some minor tearing at the margins. The high contrast of the printed text against the artificially darkened background is a hallmark of mid-to-late 20th-century decorative replicas.