Servants for a shilling: Receipt from 1767 found in Stafford hotel
It might be commonplace to decline a receipt with the latest technology allowing us to pay by scanning our cards and phones at the checkout.
But spare a thought for handwritten paper receipts of the past found in a chest of drawers in The Vine Hotel in Stafford - dating to 1767.
It was discovered by television auctioneer Charles Hanson, manager of Hansons Auctioneers, and has been seen on BBC One’s Bargain Hunt.
Mr Hanson said: "On opening the drawer of an old walnut chest, which dated to the early 18th century, under the lining at the back we uncovered a receipt for a stay at The Vine Hotel in Stafford, dated January 23 1767.
"It really is remarkable since the receipt, although badly worn, is still very clear - on the evening of January 23rd, two suppers were enjoyed for a shilling along with two breakfasts for eight old pence, ale was consumed at four shillings and tuppence, horses' hay at two shillings and eight old pence, corn at two shillings and eight old pence, and servants at a shilling.
"This overnight stay, which in modern days might be seen as bed and breakfast including dinner, with fuel for the horses, came to a grand total of twelve shillings and tuppence."
The receipt, which is nearly 250 years old, is written on plain paper and folded up and was written seven years into the reign of mad King George III.
It came 22 years before the French Revolution and was a full 70 years before Queen Victoria came to the throne.
The Vine Hotel on Salter Street is still standing, and is in fact the oldest pub in Stafford.
Mr Hanson added: "Tucked away down a narrow side street, The Vine would have entertained guests and coaches passing through Stafford.
"As an auctioneer, I often ask our clients to check drawers, and following a recent large find of gold sovereigns in a piano, we always check furniture to ensure that nothing has been left following a house clearance!"
This bill will be sold in the Fine Art and Antiques Auction, June 29 to July 1 with a guide price of £20 and £30.
"In some respects we really hope it goes home, and perhaps the Vine Hotel in Stafford may just acquire this old bill."
For further enquiries about this sale, or external valuation days, contact Charles Hanson on 01283 733988, 07725 514855, or at charleshanson@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk.
