Partly Printed Check Signed "Saml. L. Clemens," 7.75" x 2.75". Hartford, Ct., July 2, 1875. Check No. 147. Filled out by Clemens, drawn on the First National Bank of Hartford for $1,744.08, payable to "John Franey, Collector," endorsed on verso "J Franey/Collector." Fine condition. Slabbed and autograph graded "GEM MT 10," by PSA/DNA.

Lists itemizing holdings of real estate, insurance stock, bank stock, money loaned at interest, and merchandise, were due by November 1, 1874, with a 10% penalty for late filers. Assessed values were made public in March 1875 and taxes on them were payable by July 15th. Clemens's assessed value published on March 30, 1875, was $84,450. Mark Twain's property tax bill from the Town and City of Hartford and School Districts was $1,744.08.

When he received the tax assessors' request for his property list in October 1876, due November 1st, noting that it was required "By the law of 1872," Mark Twain forwarded it to Charles E. Perkins, his lawyer, adding, "I'd hate to have to leave the State, but I would much rather do it than be robbed under the cover of the law."

Auction Notepad