Lewis Swift discovered NGC 6385 = Sw. IV-52, along with NGC 6387, on 22 Jul 1886, and logged "eF; S; R; B star nr s[outh]; sp of 2 [with NGC 6387]. His position is fairly accurate, though the bright star is 2.9' WSW.

400/500mm - 17.5" (6/18/88): faint, small, round, brightens gradually. Located 2.9' ENE of mag 8 SAO 30401, which detracts from viewing. Pair with NGC 6387 3.3' ENE.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb