Auction Catalogue (1854)

Bethune & Hunter were early and notable auctioneers in Wellington who sold everything from livestock to land to foodstuffs to machinery. In addition to writing paper, stationery, travelling desks, a reading candle, and pens, this particular sale catalogue printed at the "Independent Office" includes a map of New Zealand, Williams' New Zealand Dictionary, as well as the standard classical fare of a well-read gentleman "about to leave the colony." Bethunes are still thriving today as a highly respected auction firm which specialises in the sale of New Zealand books, as well as real estate and property management.