William Herschel discovered NGC 5623 = H II-329 = h1808 on 13 Mar 1785 (sweep 388) and logged "F, S, R." On 29 Apr 1827 (sweep 74), John Herschel commented, "F; S; R; vsmbM; 15 to 20"; almost stellar."

300/350mm - 13.1" (6/18/85): moderately bright, very small bright core, small almost round halo. Located among a group of brighter stars including mag 9 SAO 64130 4.4' S.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb