Dear T-Ann:
 
We use a system of "zero" numbers for our FIC objects. Many things have very old catalog cards, but were never input into the database, tagged, or given a formal record file (many of them have thank you letters in "some box, somewhere", but no deeds of gift - ugh).
 
We apply the 0 in the second part of the number, and assign the current year to the first part. Example: 2009.0.26 a-b. 
 
We list all of the Zero numbers at the end of the current year in our accession log, and if someone uncovers a piece of documentation about a work, we can glance at those lists to determine if we have a match.
 
Hope this helps.
 
Best,
 
~Perian
 
Perian Sully
Collections Information Manager
Web Programs Strategist
The Magnes

________________________________

From: Museum discussion list on behalf of Tracy Leach
Sent: Wed 3/18/2009 3:20 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Accessioning an object of unknown origin


Hi everyone,

I know this is probably something that has been brought up before, but I was wondering if there was a standard practice of accessioning objects of unknown origin in a collection.  If an object has been in a collection for many years but has no accession and has no documentation to speak is there a standard way of accessioning the object or is it up to the museum.  I know several museums use XX "numbers" etc...  Any help or documentation that you know of would be most helpful.

Thanks,
T-Ann

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