Scope and Content Note
The series consists of inventories compiled by the State Treasurer of all goods sold at public auctions by auctioneers. The records were generated pursuant to Chapter 4 of the Laws of 1784 which required the State Treasurer to keep "exact and distinct accounts of the monies to arise" from sales at public auctions so that a tax of 2 1/2 per cent could be levied on all the proceeds.
The records contain a sworn statement by the auctioneer and are witnessed by Gerard Banker, State Treasurer, claiming that the accounts described are true and accurate. A listing of the value of goods sold during a particular period for each day accompanies the statement. In some instances, an itemized list detailing the goods sold and their value has been included.
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