Measures 4.5x11Original 1868 United States Internal Revenue Special Tax Receipt - Dual Signature Worcester, Massachusetts HistoryUp for sale is an exceptional piece of Reconstruction-era American history. This authentic 1868 United States Internal Revenue Special Tax Receipt (District Form 5) was officially issued to a prominent retail dealer operating in the heart of downtown Worcester, Massachusetts. Notably, this document features important provenance on both sides, making it a stellar addition for regional history, genealogy, or autograph collectors.
These federal special taxes were implemented by the U.S. government immediately following the Civil War to fund national debts. The piece displays striking 19th-century security typography, beautiful period script handwriting, and a bold, pristine circular blue stamped office seal from the Internal Revenue Collector\'s office.
High-Value Historical Provenance & Signatures:- The Front: Hand-signed at the bottom right by A. B. R. Sprague (Augustus Brown Reed Sprague), serving as the Collector for the 8th District of Massachusetts. General Sprague is one of the most prominent figures in early Worcester civic history, serving as a decorated Union Civil War Brevet Brigadier General, Worcester City Marshal, Worcester County Sheriff, and eventually the Mayor of Worcester.- The Reverse: Features the original period handwritten docketing signature of the local taxpayer, James Broadbent, a recorded 19th-century merchant operating his retail trade directly on Main Street during Worcester\'s industrial boom.
Item Specifications:- Year of Issue: May 1, 1868 (Valid through May 1, 1869)- Location: No. 236 Main Street, City of Worcester, Massachusetts- Occupation Taxed: Retail Dealer- Taxpayer Identity: James Broadbent (Signed on reverse)- Primary Signatory: Civil War General & Mayor A. B. R. Sprague (Collector)- Tax Amount: 10.00 Dollars
Condition Report:Good historical condition overall. The document exhibits authentic age-related paper toning and localized historic ink-burn or rust staining near the top and bottom borders, which is entirely consistent with genuine 19th-century paper ephemera. The main text body, the exceptionally clean blue stamped office seal, General Sprague\'s autograph, and the reverse taxpayer signature all remain incredibly crisp, distinct, and fully legible. An excellent, display-ready candidate for archiving or framing. Please examine all provided photographs carefully to independently assess the item\'s condition before purchasing.
Item will be securely packaged and shipped flat to prevent any bending or damage during transit. Please contact us with any questions.
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