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Assay Sample Bag NV - Virginia City,Storey County - c1870 - 2012aug - Mining Hard goods/Important Mi

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Western Americana Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 6,000.00 USD
Assay Sample Bag NV - Virginia City,Storey County - c1870 - 2012aug - Mining Hard goods/Important Mi
Invoicing and lot pick up will NOT be available at the live auction.
This is a high grade ore sample pouch marked E.A. MARTIN & CO. ASSAY, "C" AND TAYLOR ST. VIRGINIA CITY, NEV. These were used to great effect by the mine owners to disguise the actual worth of ore samples transported to the assayer. These pouches were locked, with only the mine superintendent and assayer possessing keys. In many cases, the assayer was on the payroll of the mine and, since no one else ever saw the sample, he could assay the sample for any price he chose, or was instructed to choose. This piece is constructed of riveted leather, measuring 12" x 7" and in excellent condition. -60050