This is the large atlas to accompany the third monograph of the USGS, and contains 17 double-page and 2 single-page maps. The plates in the atlas include the mining district as a whole as well as cross-sections, diagrams, and cross-views of the network of shafts. An important atlas of the mining activity in the Comstock Lode. Hardbound in brown cloth with gilt stamped title on front cover. Elephant folio.

This area of Nevada (Virginia City) first drew the interest of gold prospectors in the 1850's. They struggled with the heavy, gooey mud that clung to picks and shovels. When assayed this troublesome muck proved to contain silver ore worth over $2,000 a ton - in 1859 dollars - not counting the gold content! This rich lode caught the attention of President Lincoln who realized its mineral wealth could help keep the Union solvent during the Civil War. In 1864 he made Nevada a state, bypassing the sticky problem that it did not contain enough people to be constitutionally eligible for statehood.

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Condition: B+

The maps are very good to near fine with light toning and occasional faint color offsetting. The front hinge is starting. Covers are lightly worn with bumped edges and a small chip on the front cover that has been closed with binder's tape. Ex-library with withdrawn stamps on the pastedowns.