Sir Robert Ball probably discovered IC 2474 = Big. 275 on 10 Jan 1867 using LdR's 72". He noted "3 objects seen close together, of which one is probably a nebula, the other possibly also, and third a star? All of these are eF, and would perhaps not be seen unless on so good a night as this is." The second and third objects are probably IC 2474 and MCG +04-22-060, though Dreyer did not include any additional entries in the NGC because of his uncertainty. In any case, Bigourdan discovered the galaxy again on 21 Mar 1890 and was credited with the discovery in the IC.

CGCG and UGC misidentify NGC 2885 = IC 538 = CGCG 121-098 as IC 2474.

400/500mm - 17.5" (4/13/91): extremely faint and small, round. A mag 14 star is attached at the SE end and interferes with viewing. Forms a close pair with NGC 2885 2' SE. Faintest of three in a small group.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb