Available for purchase is a hard-to-find pocket map of the state of New York and surrounding vicinity published by G. W. & C. B. Colton & Company in New York circa 1872. This folding pocket map is a smaller version of a map originally published in Colton's 1856 Atlas of the World. The map covers the entire state of New York, including Lake Ontario, Long Island, and has detailed insets of the Niagara Falls area and the vicinity of New York City. Portions of adjacent states are also shown, including the entire state of Vermont. The New York map shows major roadways and railroads as well as geological features such as lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges. The map is hand colored in various pastel colors to delineate counties and state borders. The map image is surrounded by Colton's trademark spiral vine border. The map is titled "Colton's New York" and dated 1872. It was published from Colton's 172 William Street Office in New York City.

This folding map is printed on thin paper and measures approximately 16" wide and 13 1/2" tall. The actual map portion (not including borders) measures about 15" x 12 1/2". The map is pasted into gilt-lettered brown cloth boards that measure approximately 3 1/2" x 5". l purchased this map at a recent auction that was liquidating the collection of a serious collector. This map is guaranteed to be an original 1872 pocket map and not a reprint. Please check my positive feedback and buy with confidence from a trusted seller. And be sure to watch my future listings for more maps and atlases from this collection.

Between 1831 and 1890, the Colton firm dominated American map publishing, and their atlases were the finest produced in the U.S. during the 19th century. The company was founded by Joseph Hutchins Colton (1800-1893), who had no formal training in geography or cartography. He began by purchasing copyrights of maps prepared by other individuals or companies, and his principal role was to manage the production and distribution of the maps. His first maps were drawn by the esteemed cartographer David H. Burr in the 1830s. By the 1850s Colton was also publishing guidebooks, atlases, and railroad maps. He was also well known for his series of "portable" pocket maps detailing different regions, countries, and individual U.S. states. Joseph's sons, George Woolworth Colton (1827–1901) and Charles B. Colton (1831–1916), eventually took over the family business, leading the firm to rebrand as G.W. & C.B. Colton.

Condition of this historically important pocket map of New York is VERY GOOD, as graded by the previous owner. The map has a few very minor pinpoint separations at the folds and the inside paper at the spine is split (as in every other example of these pocket maps I've seen). There are a few light brown spots, some from the old glue attachment. The brown cloth covers have some wear. The back of the map has the name of the original owner written in pencil (dated 1873). Overall, this collectible map looks great and would make a fine addition to any collection. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase.

If you collect antique historical maps, particularly Colton's pocket maps, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering. This 1872 pocket map of New York is rather scarce and doesn't come up for sale often. My Buy It Now price of $179 WITH FREE SHIPPING to any U.S. destination is a bargain. So, buy this map now before someone else beats you to the deal!

While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.

See my other listings for more great items!

Payment is due immediately after purchase. Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price. E-bay has also started charging sales tax in many other states recently, something beyond my control.

For international purchases, the buyer is responsible for all customs fees. The declared value listed on the customs form will be the final selling price of the item. I will not list the item as a "gift" to avoid customs charges.

If you're the lucky buyer of this antique pocket map, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged with FREE ECONOMY SHIPPING to any location in the United States. Priority Mail shipping is also available at an extra cost. International buyers will need to message me for a shipping quote.

E-bay no longer allows sellers to offer buyers the option of purchasing shipping insurance. I will insure this item at my own expense.