- Declaration of Independence: The engrossed manuscript signed on July 4, 1776, by the Committee of Five (Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston).
- Constitution of the United States: The engrossed manuscript signed on September 17, 1787, in Philadelphia
- Bill of Rights: The original amendments passed by Congress in 1789 as a condition for states to ratify the Constitution
- Emancipation Proclamation: President Lincoln's proclamation of January 1, 1863, freeing all slaves in the Confederate states
- Gettysburg Address: Abraham Lincoln's two draft copies and a printed poster copy of the address he delivered on November 19, 1863.
- First Lady's Inaugural Gowns: These dresses are displayed seasonally in different exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing fashion and artistry throughout American history.
- World War I and World War II memorabilia
- Space exploration items
And many historical documents and artifacts related to government, social movements, scientific achievements, etc., are permanently exhibited or rotated from the museum's extensive collections within the National Archives and Records Administration.