IT was part of a gift to the British monarchy to NSW more than a century ago, but this image of Newcastle's early days is back in the spotlight.
An international search is underway to find the remnants of the gift made to Queen Victoria. Plate glass negatives discovered last year in the NSW State Archives account for 48 of the 64 images, although some remain lost.
NSW State Archives senior exhibitions curator Dr Penny Stannard said the exhibition had helped reignite search efforts.
"The history of Newcastle as an industrial city was captured in the album, so we're delighted to be sharing the exhibition with the local community," she said.
"If we're really lucky, it may even spark a new clue to the album's location."
"Our search for this exquisitely presented collection of photographs given to Queen Victoria at Windsor Castle in February 1882 has spanned cultural collections in Australia and overseas to no avail, so we're turning to the public to help locate it.
"Initial research by the NSW State Archives has revealed a design document and a prototype album, but the whereabouts of the final album is currently unknown."
City of Newcastle manager libraries and learning Suzie Gately said three images showcased Newcastle's industrial strength and progress around 1880 "including views of the railway lines, harbour and Customs House".
The Queen's Album runs at Newcastle City Library until November 2.
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