The Principality of Sealand came to my attention after reading a news story a while back. The Pirate Bay, a website devoted to trading torrent files, has apparently undergone some amazing struggles to stay afloat in recent years. I should devote a whole post to this, but I’ll just mention that their headquarters underwent a massive raid by police in May ‘06. Anyway, TPB, deciding that they could only ever by truly free from copyright law by operating from an autonomous nation, found one for sale: the Principality of Sealand.
Sealand was once Fort Roughs, constructed off the coast of Suffolk during WWII. It’s a sort of platform supported by two towers, complete with helicopter pad. Major Paddy Roy Bates, a pirate radio broadcaster, commandeered the structure in 1967. Their Royal Highnesses Prince Roy and Princess Joan of Sealand have ruled ever since. After an incident in which warning shots were fired at British ships servicing a buoy in Sealandish waters, Roy of Sealand introduced a constitution. This was followed by a flag, a national anthem, a currency and passports.
Sealand’s independence is predictably disputed, but it has all the trappings of a sovereign nation. It’s fought a war, for God’s sake. And it’s currently for sale: figures “eight digits and over” are being considered. Oh, and The Pirate Bay was ruled out as a buyer, even if they could acquire the money. To preserve the Sealandish way, bids from mobsters, crooks, or anyone attempting to avoid international law will not be considered. I implore you to read up on this, it’s really inspiring.

Sealand’s Official Website: http://www.sealandgov.org/