The collection consists of ancient documents, including a cuneiform tablet and an Egyptian hieroglyph; Medieval and Renaissance documents from England, France, Spain and Italy, 1243-1599, including deeds, charters, illuminated manuscript leaves, letter, letters patent, papal bulls, fragments from religious manuscripts, manuscripts on medicine and magic, a catalogue of English armorial shields, statutes of the Garter, and a manuscript of a Spanish Armelite prioress; modern literary and political manuscripts, records, and autographs, including policies of assurance, letters, and World War I and World War II surrender documents; autographs of various world figures; maps of Europe, Asia and North America; medals, decorations, and flags, mostly from Europe.