Galena

Unknown Owner

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A nice-sized, SHARP galena crystal of some significance because it is from the OLD lead district in northern Illinois, predating the discovery of the more abundant Missouri lead belts mined in the 1900s. This is certainly from the 1800s or early 1900s. The number painted upon the crystal's backside matches the label (whichnotes the presence of very small associations on the back, as well) Valid, antique crystals of galena, from Galena, are super-rare and this is not only a valid one, but a huge crystal in good condition for the locality. Some minor damage but all things considered, and its age probably prior to 1900, its not bad at all! I have not brightened it chemically by cleaning it, to preserve the antique look.