Declaration of Independence of America manuscript. 1819 by John Binns.

The 1819 Engraving of the Declaration of Independence by John Binns

The 1819 engraving of the Declaration of Independence by John Binns stands as a remarkable artifact in American history, reflecting the young nation’s deep reverence for its founding document. Binns, an Irish-born publisher based in Philadelphia, began this ambitious project in 1816 with the goal of producing a “splendid and correct copy” of the Declaration. His vision included facsimiles of all the original signatures, surrounded by the official arms of the thirteen states and the United States.

This elaborate engraving is distinguished not only by its patriotic symbolism but also by the collaboration of several notable artists and engravers of the period:

• George Bridport – Designed the decorative elements.

• Thomas Sully – Created drawings of the U.S. and state arms using official sources.

• Gilbert Stuart – His 1795 portrait of George Washington was featured.

• Bass Otis – Painted a portrait of Thomas Jefferson in 1816 specifically for the project.

• John Singleton Copley – His 1765 portrait of John Hancock was incorporated.

• George Murray – Engraved the decorative components and coats of arms.

• Charles H. Parker – Designed and engraved the text of the Declaration.

• James Barton Longacre – Engraved the portraits.

Binns’s engraving is not just a reproduction—it is a carefully crafted tribute to the founding ideals of the United States, blending artistry, history, and national pride into a single, iconic image.