A set of three Coptic vellum fragments including an important Coptic vellum fragment, written in a two column codex, of the Biblical passage Galatians 3:2, 9-10, 13, and 17, c. 6th-8th Century AD, which is the fragment at the bottom of the frame. This important passage from the Letter of St. Paul to the Galatians relays the words of Paul to the Galatians in regards to faith vs works of the Law. The verses recorded on this small fragment speak of faith bringing righteousness, that people of faith are the descendants of Abraham, and the promise of God. Though a small fragment, this is a fantastic and rare find relaying the message from one of the most well-known and important books of the New Testament.

The other two fragments are also of Coptic origin, c. 6th-8th Century AD. The top fragment is a literary text, which is, unfortunately, too fragmented to be translated. The middle text also appears to be a Biblical fragment, and mentions the terms 'feet of Jesus', 'strips of linen', and 'Jordan', presumably in regards to the river. This fantastic trio has been professionally translated and is mounted in a nice wooden frame. Dimensions of Top fragment: 1 1/3 in x 1 3/4 in (3.4cm x 4.5cm), Middle fragment: 3 1/8 in x 1 1/5 in (8 cm x 3 cm), Bottom fragment: 3 4/5 in x 4/5 in (9.7 cm x 2.1 cm)Ex Hamdy Sakr collection; previously in the private collection of Alex Anckonie III, acquired during his time in the Navy in the 1960's – 1970's.

A modern English translation of the Galatians 3: 2, 9-10, 13, and 17 reads:

2: I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard?

9: So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.

10: For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.'

13: Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.'

17: What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise.

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