Over 40 years ago, in the early morning hours of March 24, 1978, three swords and two daggers were stolen from the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri. These gold and gem studded artifacts remain lost treasures yet today. Will they ever resurface?
It took less than one minute for two burglars to enter the Presidential Library, break open the display case, snatch the historical treasures, and exit the building through a window. They followed a definite plan.
The guard on duty that morning responded immediately to the sound of alarm of the broken entry at around 6:30 AM. However, when he proceeded to the location of the theft, he found doors to the room chained shut from the other side. The thieves intended on exiting another way. The guard heard shatter of glass from the window they were using to escape through, but with only him on guard, there was nothing he could do in time.
The two thieves had accomplished what they came for and quickly drove off with the most valuable items in the museum without ever being seen. The only clues left behind were a pair of footprints in the snow.
The treasures were placed there on display to share with the public. They had been Presidential gifts to Harry S. Truman who was President from 1945 – 1953. He felt they belonged to the people and were for us to enjoy. The Truman Library was the first Presidential Library under the 1955 Presidential Libraries Act to be established for such purpose. It houses thousands of papers and historical items relating to his Presidency. The creation of the library has since encouraged all other Presidents to follow suit.
The Swords and Daggers that were stolen were items given to President Truman by Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Saud and the Shah of Iran.
They are described as follows:
From Prince Saud:
A dagger with a gold hilt, steel blade, and adorned with nine diamonds. The scabbard is gold with four diamonds. This set came with a belt with a gold buckle and gold threads.
A dagger with gold hilt with multiple gemstones adorning both the dagger and scabbard. Diamonds, rubies, and emeralds are incredibly placed.
A 38” sword with gold chain and diamonds. The scabbard is again gold and with with 15 diamonds.
A 38” sword with curved steel blade and Ivory grips. Again gold, diamonds, and rubies adorn the set of sword and scabbard.
From the Shah of Iran:
A sword and scabbard of silver and steel. Another spectacular set gone missing.
Few leads for the recovery of these historical treasures have ever come forth. Where are these lost treasures today? As the past has proven, it is possible they will resurface in the most unexpected places, as other lost treasures have done.
Keep your eyes out for them!
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Best of luck with all that you seek! Always treasure the adventure!
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