Papyrus 1 (𝒫1) | Matthew 1:1-20 | Front & Back Acrylic Display | MS X WH

One of the earliest surviving witnesses to the Gospel of Matthew, hand-crafted on real Egyptian papyrus.

About This Manuscript

Papyrus 1 (P1) is one of the earliest surviving biblical manuscript witnesses to the Gospel of Matthew, dating to the early third century AD. Discovered at Oxyrhynchus, Egypt, one of the most important archaeological sites in the history of the New Testament, this ancient papyrus fragment preserves portions of Matthew 1:1-9, 12, and 14-20, including part of the genealogy of Jesus and the opening narrative of His birth. Originally part of a codex, the text is written in a single column with continuous script and employs nomina sacra, the early Christian scribal abbreviations for sacred names such as Jesus, Christ, Lord, and Spirit. This museum-quality papyrus replica is ideal for collectors of early Christian artifacts, pastors, seminary students, and anyone who values the physical history of Scripture.

Textual Significance

P1 is a key witness to the Alexandrian text tradition, one of the most important textual streams in New Testament scholarship. It shows strong agreement with Codex Vaticanus, among the most significant biblical manuscripts from late antiquity, making it a foundational data point in understanding how the Gospel of Matthew was transmitted in the early centuries of the Church. For students of apologetics, textual criticism, or church history, this ancient manuscript replica offers a tangible connection to the earliest copies of the New Testament.

About This Replica

This museum-quality biblical manuscript replica is produced through an intensive hand-crafted replication process focused on historical fidelity. Particular attention is given to manuscript scale, Greek letterforms, line spacing, layout, and the visual character of the papyrus, resulting in a reproduction that closely reflects the appearance of the original ancient fragment. Each replica is made to order.

Display & Presentation

Presented in an 8x10 front-and-back acrylic display showcasing both sides simultaneously. A unique and meaningful Christian gift for pastors, scholars, seminary graduates, apologists, and collectors of biblical history. Optional engraved display stand available for $20.

Stand NOT included unless selected at checkout.