"Monographs of the United States Geological Survey Volume XXVII", U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

This report has 31 plates, more than 100 figures and five folded maps in rear pocket regarding the topography and geology of the Denver Basin. It includes a colorful, large folding map titled "Geologic Map of the Vicinity of Golden, Colo." The report examines the "recent phase in the geological history of the Rocky Mountains". The region, centered on Denver, covers an area of about 1,000 square miles, and is that portion of the Great Plains adjoining the eastern front of the Rockies in Colorado. The study is divided into mountain slopes, foothills and plains and includes a considerable investigation of coal deposits, artesian wells and fossils, particularly those of dinosaurs. The full page dinosaur plates are well rendered drawings of the full skeletons in life-like poses. Included are the Brontosaurus, Stegosaurus, Camptosaurus, Laosaurus, Ceratosaurus, Ichthyornis, Triceratops, Claosaurus, Brontops, Entelonon, and a Mastodon. The work was carried out during 1881-1883, when the mineralogical results were published. The scope was then expanded to include geological and economic resources in the basin. Bad weather and the complexity of the work delayed completion until 1888. Large 4to, 556pp. Original brown calf with raised spine and leather labels.

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Condition: A

Contents near fine. Leather on binding is softening. Front cover nearly detached with split along spine. Rubbed and with small spine piece missing at top.