How long did Mormon prophet Joseph Smith have the gold plates?

Question

Dear Gramps,

How long did Joseph Smith actually have physical posession of the golden plates? Some say three years and others say ten. Is there historical verification somewhere? Thank you.

Sheryl

Answer

Dear Sheryl,

The Prophet received the plates from Moroni in September of 1827, and the translation of the Book of Mormon was completed in June of 1829. After that the plates were returned to the Angel Moroni, who has them in his custody to this day. However, the date that the plates were returned was not recorded, so those who say three years or ten are only guessing. Only One knows.

Gramps