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Up for sale is a fascinating lot of two original, handwritten merchant bills from the historical mining town of Helena, Montana Territory.
These documents offer a unique window into commerce and daily life in the American West during the late 19th century. Both pieces feature beautifully detailed typography and clear handwriting.
Item 1: Kleinschmidt & Bro.
Date: June 30th, 1873
Location: Helena, M. T. (Montana Territory)
Details: Bill to Messrs Davis & Wallace.
Store Type: "Wholesale Dealers in Groceries, Tobacco, Cigars, Liquors, Mining Tools, Etc."
Condition: Excellent historical condition. Features two horizontal fold creases from original use. Clean paper, clear ink. Signed "Received Payment" by Chas. Mayner & Co. This piece is particularly desirable for the specific mention of "Mining Tools."
Reverse: Blank.
Item 2: Sands Brothers
Date: Dec 1st, 1881 (Handwritten "Dec 1st" with printed "188/" completed to 1)
Location: Helena, M. T. (No. 48 Main Street).
Details: Bill to Messrs A. M. Holter & Bro.
Store Type: "Importers and Dealers in Dry Goods, Fancy Goods, Carpets, Hosiery, Small Wares, &c." Listing specific branch locations in Helena, New York, and Butte.
Condition: Good historical condition. Features horizontal fold creases and some creasing on the right-hand side. There is some slight fraying/wear along the bottom fold on the right. Large, blue pencil "Paid" annotation across the face.
Reverse: Minor annotations in pencil.
Summary:
These pieces are ideal for collectors of:
Montana History & Helena Ephemera
Western Americana / Mining Town history
Antique Mercantile and Trade documents
Unique examples of 19th-century typography and stationery.
These documents are guaranteed to be authentic originals from the dates stated. Please review the high-resolution photographs carefully to assess the condition, as they are an integral part of the description.
Condition Details
Used, original paper ephemera.
Shows expected wear for its age, including folds, creasing, and minor discoloration.
No major tears, holes, or significant staining that obscure the text.
The ink handwriting remains vibrant and completely legible on both documents.
