| Independent Postal Services (1774-1792) |
| |
| |
| Lot |
Photo |
Description |
Lot 142 |
 |
1783 (May 17) Dungannon Ireland to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing manuscript "2N" and "2/ ster" ratings, endorsed "p packet", carried by the packet boat Earl of Sandwich that left Falmouth on June 23, 1783 and arrived in New York on August 13th. It is docketed received in Philadelphia on August 15, 1783, tiny edge faults, Fine, double the 1 shilling transatlantic packet rate.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
THE EARLIEST RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE RESTORED PACKET SERVICE TO INDEPENDENT AMERICA WITH EARLY POST-WAR CONTENTS THAT SHOWS A FEELING OF KINSHIP BETWEEN THE CORRESPONDENTS IN IRELAND AND PHILADELPHIA.
The letter states: "I send this by way of London where I understand there will be immediately packet boats stationed for the purpose of establishing a free correspondence between those parts of your continent in which we rejoice on having open communications with our bretheren and conclude congradulating with you in hopes of a happy security after so terrible a storm".
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 143 |
 |
1774 (Jan. 26) Philadelphia Pa. to Newport R.I. via Salem, date docketing on folded cover bearing red "PHILA MAR: 21" straightline postmark on flap and red manuscript "4" rating, received in Salem, Mass. with "Salem / Apr:1" two-line postmark on flap, then overland to Newport, R.I.; two tape stains on flap, Very Fine, the published 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles from Philadelphia to Newport.
Estimate 6,000 - 8,000
ONLY TWO EXAMPLES OF THIS SALEM STRAIGHTLINE POSTMARK ARE RECORDED.
The new style postmarks are often attributed to William Goddard although conclusive proof is lacking. The Salem postmark is dated the first day that Salem's new patriotic subscription post began service. It's also two days after Goddard left Salem on his trip to encourage the formation of a new system in opposition to the Parliamentary Post.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 144 |
 |
1775 (Jan. 31) Newburyport Ms. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing "Newbury / Feb: 3" and manuscript "4-16" rating, Philadelphia red manuscript "2/2", received Feb. 14, soiling on file folds, Fine, the published 4 dwt 16 gr (14 pence) rate from Newbury to Philadelphia, rated 2 shillings 2 pence in local currency (24d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 6,000 - 8,000
THE EARLIER OF TWO RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THIS POSTMARK.
Provenance: Mayer, Carson
This British postmark has been considered to be one of the earliest Goddard Post usages.
Illustrated, "The Posted Letter in Colonial and Revolutionary America 1628-1790", Alex L. Ter Braake, p. II-53
Illustrated, The Encyclopedia of British Empire Postage Stamps, Vol. V, 1973, p. 30.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 145 |
 |
1775 (Feb. 6) Georgetown Md. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing partial strike of "George * Town * S" straightline postmark with separate date "Feb:7" handstamp on reverse, manuscript "2" rating, Philadelphia red manuscript "1/-", Very Fine, the 2 dwt (6 pence) rate for 60-100 miles, rated 1 shilling local currency (10d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
ONE OF TWO RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THIS GEORGETOWN POSTMARK.
The "George * Town * S" postmark has been attributed to South Carolina. However, based on the 2 dwt rate on this cover and the similar rates on the other two recorded covers- one of which is a manuscript cancel (see lot….), it must have been the Maryland Eastern Shore town that lies within 100 miles of Philadelphia.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 146 |
 |
1775 (Feb. 7) New Haven Ct. to Boston Ms., datelined folded letter addressed to Thos. Greenough in Boston, bearing red "N*HAVEN FEBR: 7" straightline postmark on backflap and magenta "2.16-" rating; tiny tears at top and bottom, soiled, otherwise Fine, the 2 dwt 16 gr rate for 100-200 miles.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
THE EARLIEST RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THIS POSTMARK.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 147 |
 |
1775 (Feb. 20) North Carolina to Philadelphia Pa. via Norfolk, folded letter with "Parquo. Co. No. Carolina." datelined and endorsed "Via Post", hand carried to Norfolk, entered mails with boldly struck "Norfolk / Feb:25" two-line postmark on flap and red manuscript "5.8", Philadelphia red manuscript "2/5", lightly soiled, Very Fine, the published 5 dwt 8 grain rate from Norfolk to Philadelphia, rated 2 shillings 5 pence in local currency (27d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 148 |
 |
1775 (Mar. 7) Pigg Point Md. to Philadelphia Pa. via Marlboro, datelined folded letter hand carried to Marlboro, entered the post with boldly struck "Marlbro'" straightline postmark and manuscript "2.16" rating, Philadelphia "Mar:10"receiving handstamp on reverse and red manuscript "1/4", business content ordering mainly alcoholic goods, Extremely Fine and choice, the 2 dwt rate for 60-100 miles plus 16 grain ship fee, rated 1 shilling 4 pence in local currency (14d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 6,000 - 8,000
THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THIS POSTMARK.
Provenance: Jarrett
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 149 |
 |
1775 (Apr. 3) Salem N.J. to Philadelphia Pa. via Salem Stage, datelined folded letter with "p stage" endorsement, carried via stage to Cooper's Landing (now Camden) and by ferry to Philadelphia, Very Fine.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 150 |
 |
1775 (May 12) Watertown Provincial Congress, folded letter sheet datelined "In Provincial Congress Watertown, May 12th 1775", the copy of the Act approved on May 18, 1775 that created an independent postal system in Massachusetts, which New Hampshire latter joined, small stain spot, otherwise Very Fine, an important historical document describing the postal matters during the Revolutionary Period.
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
THE ONLY RECORDED ORIGINAL HANDWRITTEN COPY OF THE ACT APPROVED MAY 12, 1775, CREATING AN INDEPENDENT POSTAL SYSTEM IN MASSACHUSETTS.
The copy reads in part, "Resolved, as the Opinion of this Congress that Post Riders be immediately established to go from Cambridge, and to ride the following road, viz. To George Town, in the County of Lincoln - To Havehill - To Providence - To Woodstock by Worcester, and from Worcester to Great Barrington by Springfd. and to Falmouth, in the County of Barnstable.
And that Post Offices be kept as followith, viz. one at Cambridge - One at Salem, one at Ipswich - one at Havehill - one at Newbury Port - one at Kennebunk in Wells, one at George Town, in the Cty. of Lincoln - one at Worcester - one at Springfield - one at Great Barringto, one at Plymo. - one at Sandwich - and one at Falmo. in the Coy. of Barnstable."
The copy continues with various post office business including postmaster appointments and the rate table by distances. Rates include 5¼d for up to 60 miles, 8d for 60-100 miles, 10½d for 100-200 miles, 1sh 1d for 200-300 miles, etc. Additional section dated May 18th, 1775 added Portsmouth New Hampshire to the independent postal system. Also noted, is that Connecticut has already taken of the business of setting up an independent postal system.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 151 |
 |
1775 (Jul. 5) Barbados to Halifax Nova Scotia via Machias Me., datelined folded letter that was being carried on cartel ship Triton, endorsed "By way of Rhode Island", docketed "Opened by order of the Committee of Safety for Machias — Jas Lyon", received in Halifax on Sep. 20, 1775, some wear, Fine.
Estimate 15,000 - 20,000
THE ONLY RECORDED AMERICAN CENSORED COVER OF THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
The cartel ship Triton was taken by a privateer operating out of Machias Maine. The letter was brought to Machais and turned over to the Committee for Safety. It was opened and read by Reverend James Lyon, Chairman of the Committee of Safety for Machias. It was found to be of a personal nature and released.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 152 |
 |
1775 (Aug. 23) Philadelphia Pa to Walnford N.J. via Bordentown Stage, datelined folded letter with last page only addressed to Richard Waln, endorsed "pr Bordentown Stage" and carried by stage boat up the Delaware River to Bordentown, where handled by stage to Walnford, Very Fine.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 153 |
 |
1775 (Aug. 30) Fredericksburg Va. to Fairfax Va., datelined folded letter bearing "Fredericksburg / Aug 30" two-line postmark on reverse, manuscript "1/4" rating, some wear on fold and small tear, Fine, the 20% reduced rate of 1 dwt 4 grains for 0-60 miles, the published Parliamentary rate for this distance was 1 dwt 8 grains.
Estimate 6,000 - 8,000
ONE OF ONLY FOUR RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 26, 1775.
Apparently addressed to a relative of George Washington. The letter mentions George Washington, "I am persuaded General Washington had made the most likely provision for paying me the money promised."
George Washington was made the commander-in-chief in June 1775.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 154 |
 |
1775 (Sep. 17) Talbot Court House Md. to Philadelphia Pa. via Chester Town, datelined folded letter with "p post" and "Forwd" endorsements, hand sent to Chester Town, entered post with "Chester * T Sept 19" postmark on flap to Philadelphia, manuscript "N8" rating, Philadelphia red manuscript "1/4", Very Fine, the published 8 pence rate for 100-200 miles to Philadelphia, rated 1 shilling 4 pence in local currency (14d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 6,000 - 8,000
THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE "CHESTER * T" STRAIGHTLINE POSTMARK AND ONE OF FOUR CONTINENTAL CONGRESS RATES.
Provenance: Haas
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 155 |
 |
1775 (Oct. 12) Philadelphia Pa. to Newport R.I., folded cover with 1775 docketing indicating letter was from Joseph Hewes, bearing manuscript "Phil" postmark and matching "4 dwt" rating, reverse with perfectly struck "12 / OC" Franklin mark, carried by Sloop Hampden to Rhode Island, some light staining and minor paper loss on flap, Fine, the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles.
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
THE EARLIEST RECORDED POSTMARK FROM THE NEWLY OPENED PHILADELPHIA CONGRESSIONAL POST OFFICE.
Philadelphia's new Congressional Post Office opened in early October 1775. Apparently this was a private letter from signer Joseph Hewes because it was not sent free. Although often abused, a Congressional delegate's frank was valid only for official business. Interestingly, there are no known free franks of Joseph Hewes.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 156 |
 |
1775 (Oct. 31) Newburyport Ms. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing manuscript "NP" and reddish manuscript "9.8" rating, Philadelphia manuscript "4/1", soiling on file fold and couple spots, tiny tear at top, Fine, double the published 4 dwt 16 gr (14 pence) rate from Newbury to Philadelphia, rated 4 shillings 1 pence in local currency (47d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 157 |
 |
1775-76 (c.) Philadelphia Pa. to Cambridge Ms., folded cover with free frank endorsement "Congress Philada, John Hancock" and "On Public Service", addressed to John Thomas, First Brigadier General in the American Army; tape reinforced and some erosion, Fine.
Estimate 5,000 - 7,500
First signer of Declaration of Independence, John Hancock was a member of the Continental Congress for Massachusetts, 1774-1778. He also served as the first Governor of Massachusetts and was re-elected in 1787.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 158 |
 |
1776 (c.) Philadelphia Pa. to Lebanon Conn., folded cover with free frank endorsement "Free Wm Williams Philadela", addressed in hand to Mrs. Mary Williams at Col. Williams's residence in Lebanon Conn., without date or contents; carefully silked, light toning, Very Fine appearing.
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
ONE OF ONLY TWO RECORDED FREE FRANKS OF WILLIAM WILLIAMS IN PRIVATE HANDS.
Provenance: Grunin
William Williams was a delegate from Connecticut to the Continental Congress of 1776-1778 and 1783-1784 and signer of the Declaration of Independence.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 159 |
 |
1776 (Feb. 13) Newburyport Ms. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing "NP" postmark with matching "4.16" rating, Philadelphia pencil "2/", slight toning on fold, folded out for display, Fine, the 4 dwt 16 gr (14 pence) rate for 400-500 miles, rated 2 shillings in local currency (24d postage, no carrier fee).
Estimate 750 - 1,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 160 |
 |
1776 (Mar. 5) Bristol England to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter endorsed "p packet" which had been discontinued, manuscript "1N" rating, carried by private ship to Philadelphia, arrived with "11 / JY" Bishop mark, Very Fine, the one shilling packet rate for transatlantic postage.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 161 |
 |
1776 (Apr. 4) Philadelphia Pa. to New York N.Y., datelined folded letter endorsed "p the post" addressed to the "Secretary of the provincial Congress New York", bearing red manuscript "Phila" postmark and matching "4 Way" rating probably in the hand of Benjamin Franklin, who was then Postmaster General, additional manuscript "1/11"; tape stains and internal separation, Fine, double the 2 dwt (6 pence) rate from Philadelphia to New York, rated 1 shilling 11 pence in local currency.
Estimate 3,000 - 4,000
A RARE EARLY WAY USAGE.
Provenance: Carson
In 1775, Benjamin Franklin was appointed by the Continental Congress as its first Postmaster General. He served until Richard Bache was appointed to the position on November 7, 1776.
Illustrated, The Encyclopedia of British Empire Postage Stamps, Vol. V, 1973, p. 7.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 162 |
 |
1776 (Jun. 10) Philadelphia Pa. to Providence R.I., folded cover with docketing and bearing red manuscript "Phila" postmark and matching "4 -" rating, brownish Philadelphia "11 / JU" Franklin mark, tiny edge tear, Very Fine, the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
Provenance: Chambers
This cover was mailed just three days before the Congress began its debate leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and three weeks prior to the actual signing. The Philadelphia Post Office was within 500 feet of "Independence Hall".
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 163 |
 |
1776 (Jun. 14) Morristown N.J. to Norwich Ct. via New York, datelined folded letter probably carried privately to New York, entered the post with very fine strike of bluish-green "N:YORK * JUNE.17" straightline postmark across flaps and manuscript "5.8" rating, docketed "Aswd. July 3d.:1776"; faults, Fine, double the 2 dwt 16 grains rate for 100-200 miles.
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
ONE OF FOUR RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE "N:YORK" STRAIGHTLINE POSTMARK IN BLUISH-GREEN.
Provenance: Chambers
The New York Constitutional Post under the authority of newly appointed postmaster Ebenezer Hazard, used a distinctive bluish-green ink with New York straightline handstamps. The distinctive ink color was apparently used to distinguish the markings from the competing Parliamentary post. The bluish-green ink is recorded from August 31, 1775 through July 15, 1776.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 164 |
 |
1776 (Jul. 13) Lancaster Pa. to York County Pa., folded letter datelined "In Committee, Lancaster 13th of July 1776", endorsed "p Express" and "On publick Business / Wm. Atlee Chairman of Committe Lancaster", carried by military express to Brigadier General James Ewing; aging, Fine.
Estimate 7,500 - 10,000
The letter, dated nine days after the Declaration of Independence, reports that Congress has given the Committee the responsibility for guarding captured soldiers, and provides direction on how this responsibility is to be met.
The letter starts, "We this moment received a letter from Congress with the resolves of that honourable body directing & impowering this Committee to keep a guard over the Prisioners in the Barracks of this place, and to surround the said Barracks with a stockade fort - accompanied by a resolve which shows that the prisoners (privates) who are at Reading are to be removed here…" The Congressional letter from John Hancock dated July 12, and the resolve from Congress dated July 10 are copied into the letter.
The Continental Army established a military express, similar in concept to the Pony Express, between military headquarters in York, Pa. and Philadelphia. This may well be the earliest usage.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 165 |
 |
1776 (Aug. 14) Cap Francois Haiti to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter carried by private ship to Williamsburg, entered the post with red manuscript "Wmsburg" postmark and "6" rating, Very Fine.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
Provenance: Carson
Illustrated, "The Posted Letter in Colonial and Revolutionary America 1628-1790", Alex L. Ter Braake, p. II-135.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 166 |
 |
1776 (Aug. 16) Charlestown S.C. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing manuscript "Charlestown" and matching manuscript "9 dwt 8 gr" rating, Philadelphia manuscript "4/1", light soiling on fold, Very Fine, rated 9 dwt 8 gr as double the 4.16 rate for 500-600 miles in the Franklin chart, rated 4 shillings 1 pence in local currency (47d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 3,000 - 4,000
THE FIRST MAIL AFTER THE BRITISH LOSS AT CHARLESTON, AS WELL AS A RARE USE OF A MANUSCRIPT POSTMARK.
The letter reports "…the confusion of our public affairs here, have hereto been prevented to reply…".
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 167 |
 |
1776 (Sep. 2) Lisbon Portugal to Newport R.I. via New Haven, folded cover with forwarders endorsement on flap "Sept. 2d 1776 Forwarded by…Moses Seixas", entered the post at New Haven with red manuscript "N Haven" postmark and matching "Ship 6.16" rating, edge flaws, Fine, double the 2 dwt 16 gr rate for 100-200 miles from New Haven to Newport plus double the 16 gr ship fee.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 168 |
 |
1776 (Sep. 9) Paramaribo, Suriname to Providence R.I. via Philadelphia, datelined folded letter carried by private ship to Philadelphia, handled by forwarder and endorsed "Phila Oct. 8, 1776 Rec'd & Forwarded by…Benj Marshall & Brothers", entered the post with "PHILa OCT. 8" straightline handstamp and red manuscript "4" rating, Very Fine, the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
Provenance: Carson
Illustrated, "The Posted Letter in Colonial and Revolutionary America 1628-1790", Alex L. Ter Braake, p. II-99
Illustrated, The Encyclopedia of British Empire Postage Stamps, Robson Lowe, Vol. V, 1973, p. 47.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 169 |
 |
1776 (Sep. 19) Ship Mole. to Philadelphia Va. via Hampton, datelined private ship letter posted with manuscript "Hampton" postmark and matching "5 - 8" rating, Philadephia red manuscript "2/5"; soiling, Fine, the published 5 dwt 8 gr rate from Hampton to Philadelphia (1.8 dwt Hampton to Williamsburg, plus 4 dwt to Philadelphia), rated 2 shillings 5 pence in local currency (27d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
The letter reads in part: "There was a little pilot boat from your place Capt. Douglass taken within a league of our point and indeed in view of this place, there was a 36 Gun Frigate here at Anchor & a Coast Guard who shipped their cables and are in pursuit of the prize and the English Cruisers thats of here, this affair wears every serious appearance and may be productive of agreeable consequences to America or every person who enjoys any place under the King in demonstrating against the insults that are committing on this Coast by the English and theres no doubt at last but they will have some Effect. The frigate is not yet Returned and will have satisfaction before she does, what this will produce I shall Let you Know shortly. We are every day in Expectation of the Arrival of a considerable Land & Naval force from france".
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 170 |
 |
1776 (c.) (Nov. 8) Philadelphia Pa. to N. Litchfield Ct., folded cover bearing free frank endorsement "Free O Wolcott" as a member of the Continental Congress, red manuscript "Free" and "PHILa NO. 8" postmark on flap; slight toning, Fine.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
THE ONLY RECORDED FREE FRANK OF OLIVER H. WOLCOTT, SR.
Oliver H. Wolcott, Sr. was a delegate to the Continental Congress from Connecticut, 1775-78, 1780-84, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, Deputy Governor of Connecticut, 1786-96, and Governor of Connecticut, 1796-97 dying in office.
The stampless cover catalogue records no example of this free frank.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 171 |
 |
1776 (Nov. 18) Nantes France to Philadelphia Pa. via New London, datelined folded letter carried by private ship to New London, entered the mails with manuscript "New London" postmark and matching "3 Draper, Welsh & Co…8gr" rating, Philadelphia manuscript "1/7", light stain, Fine, the 3 dwt 8 gr rate for 200-300 miles, rated 1 shilling 7 pence in local currency (17d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 172 |
 |
1776 (Nov. 23) Baltimore Md. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter endorsed "p Post", bearing "BALTIMORE. / NOVEMBER 23." two-line postmark on flap and manuscript "2-16" rating, Philadelphia "1/4", Very Fine, the 2 dwt 16 grain rate for 100-200 miles, rated 1 shilling 4 pence in local currency (14d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 173 |
 |
1776 (Dec. 20) St. Eustatia, West Indies to Philadelphia Pa. via Baltimore, folded letter with date heading, St. Eustatia forwarder endorsement "St Eustatia 22 Dec 1776 Recd & Forwarded by Wms Patterson", blockade run to Baltimore, entered the post with "BALTIMORE / JANUARY 25." two-line postmark on flap and manuscript "Sh 3-8" rating, Philadelphia manuscript "1/7"; folds reinforced, Fine; the 2 dwt 16 grain rate for 100-200 miles plus 16 grain ship fee, rated 1 shilling 7 pence in local currency (17d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
AN EXCEEDINGLY RARE BLOCKADE USAGE.
Provenance: Haas
The letter is reporting the "Condemnation" of the Brig George as "totally unfit to risque not only the lives of the People but your Interest" after a committee of three captains and two carpenters examined her.
St. Eustatia was a major source of gunpowder and supplies for the Continental Army. The British maintained a blockade of the island from 1776 until 1781.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 174 |
 |
1779 (Nov. 4) Philadelphia Pa. to St. Eustatia, West Indies, datelined folded letter carried via private ship through the blockade, no postal markings, Very Fine.
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
AN EXCEEDINGLY RARE INBOUND BLOCKADE COVER.
St. Eustatia was a major source of gunpowder and supplies for the Continental Army. The British maintained a blockage of the island from 1776 until 1781.
The letter mentions that the West Indies Islands will have continue with their dependence upon Europe for supplies, at least until the British decide to evacuate the American Colonies.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 175 |
 |
1777 (c.) Philadelphia Pa. to Salem County, N.J., folded cover without date addressed to "The Committee of Inspection & Observation", carried by military officer indicated by "p Lieut. James Read" endorsement; folds reinforced, paper loss at left, Fine.
Estimate 500 - 750
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 176 |
 |
1777 (c.) Fredericksburgh Va. to Philadelphia Pa., folded cover bearing manuscript "Fedbg" postmark and matching "3.8" rating, Philadelphia manuscript "1/5", minor edge toning, Fine, the 3 dwt 8 grains rate for 200-300 miles, rated 1 shilling 5 pence in local currency (17d postage and does not include the carrier fee).
Estimate 750 - 1,000
The cover was addressed to Brigadier General William Woodford commanding the 1st Virginia Brigade, charged with protecting the Congress during the Spring of 1777.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 177 |
 |
1777 (Feb. 15) Philadelphia Pa. to Boston Ms., datelined folded letter bearing "PHILAD. FEBRUARY 17" straightline postmark on flap, manuscript "8" rating, small stain, Very Fine, double the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles from Philadelphia to Boston.
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 178 |
 |
1777 (Feb. 23) Princeton N.J. to Cranbury N.J., datelined folded letter from Major General Israel Putnam, commander at Princeton to Colonel John Neilson at Cranbury providing intelligence and orders, military pass endorsement "Permit James Mount to pass to Cranbury…A Burr" signed by Major Aaron Burr, Putnam's aide-de-camp, Fine.
Estimate 4,000 - 5,000
Written six weeks after the battle, intelligence was being sent to Cranbury, a forward outpost of Princeton.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 179 |
 |
1777 (Mar. 3) Dartmouth England to Philadelphia Pa. via Providence, datelined folded letter carried by private ship to Providence, entering the Congressional post with manuscript "Prov" postmark and matching "4" rating to signer Robert Morris, Very Fine, the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles.
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
THE LISTING AND ONLY REPORTED EXAMPLE OF THE POSTMARK.
The letter reads in part: "The Business of Privateering has been attended with its bad as well as good Consequences but I hope that the Misconduct or Villany of two or three individuals will not interrupt that Harmony that has hithero subsisted between the Sister States. I have heard that the Privateers in the State of Rhode Island have determined should they fall in with a Prize in Company with those from this state that they will, if strong enough, carry the Prize into their state."
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 180 |
 |
1777 (May 20) Philadelphia Pa. to Providence R.I., folded cover with date docketing bearing "PHIla" low "a" variety straightline handstamp on flap and manuscript "4" rating; paper loss on flap, toning, Fine, the 4 dwt (1 shilling) rate for 300-400 miles.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
Provenance: Chambers
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 181 |
 |
1777 (Jun. 20) Philadelphia Pa. to Groton Ct., folded cover with "Secret Committee" dateline and docketing indicating contents related to a resolution regarding the need to husband salt, "PHILa June 21." straightline postmark across flaps, manuscript "4" rating crossed out and updated to "3.8", Fine, the 3 dwt 8 gr (10 pence) rate for 200-300 miles.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 182 |
 |
1777 (Jul. 2) Alexandria Va. to Philadelphia Pa., datelined folded letter bearing manuscript "Alexa" postmark and matching "2.16" rating, carried by stage to Philadelphia where manuscript "1/4" and carrier notation "Walnut St / Front St" added, some soiling, Fine, the 2 dwt 16 grain (8 pence) rate for 100-200 miles, rated 1 shilling 4 pence in local currency (14d postage plus 2d carrier fee).
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 183 |
 |
1777 (Aug. 12) Philadelphia Pa. to Kingston N.H., folded cover with date docketing, free frank endorsement "Free Nathel.Folsom" member of the Continental Congress, to Josiah Bartlett, signer of the Declaration of Independence, entered the post with "PHILa AUGUST 12 straightline postmark; minor edge fault, Fine.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 184 |
 |
1777 (Aug. 25) Camp near Wilmington Del. to Fredericksburg, Va. via Philadelphia, folded letter with "Camp in pensylvania 4 miles from Wilmington" dateline, carried by military courier to Philadelphia, entered Congressional Post with "PHILa AUG" straightline postmark and manuscript "3.8" rating to Fredericksburg, cover silked, Fine, the 3 dwt 8 gr (10 pence) rate for 200-300 miles from Philadelphia to Fredericksburg.
Estimate 7,500 - 10,000
Letter from Colonel Alexander Spotswood, grandson of former Deputy Postmaster General which states, "Howe yesterday began to land abt 3 miles below the head of Elk (Maryland); which is 22 miles from our present camp, in abt 12 days a blow will be struck…hr cannot have more than 8000 men, we have to oppose him 10000 regulars…our army is healthy, in fine spirits, and anxious to engage…"
The letter was written just two weeks prior to the Battle of Brandywine. Despite the apparent confidence of Colonel Spotswood in the spirits of his troops, the Americans were defeated, 800 men wounded and 400 taken prisoner.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 185 |
 |
1777 (Dec. 8) Dumfries Va. to Fredericksburg Va., folded cover bearing "Dumf" and matching "(way)", Very Fine.
Estimate 500 - 750
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 186 |
 |
1778 (Jan. 9) Williamsburg Va. to Fredericksburg Va., folded cover with docketing, bearing manuscript "Wmsburg" postmark with matching "Way 24 dwt" rating, light toning, Fine, rated 24 dwt.
Estimate 500 - 750
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 187 |
 |
1778 (Jan. 30) Albany N.Y. local use, folded letter with "Albany Goal" (Jail) dateline and addressed to George Clinton Governor of New York, manuscript "11d" rating, Fine, the letter was charged 11 pence in local currency, equivalent to the 2 dwt (6 pence) rate for up to 100 miles.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
The letter is from an imprisoned Tory to the Governor requesting to be included in a prisoner of war exchange.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 188 |
 |
1778 (Feb. 8) Alexandria Va. to Fredericksburg Va., folded cover with docketing, bearing "Alexa." and matching "Way 2", the "Way" is lightly crossed out, light toning, Fine, the 2 dwt rate for up to 60 miles.
Estimate 500 - 750
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 189 |
 |
1778 (Apr. 2) Camp Valley Forge Pa. to Weatherfield Ct., free franked folded letter bearing dateline from Major General Nathanael Greene, Washington's Second in Command, to an Army Agent in Connecticut, endorsed "N Greene" and "On Public Service"; fold separation and aging, small paper loss, Fine.
Estimate 20,000 - 30,000
ONE OF ONLY A FEW LETTERS FROM THE VALLEY FORGE ENCAMPMENT IN PRIVATE HANDS.
We estimate there are fewer than a dozen surviving letters from the Valley Forge encampment in private hands and probably none, other than the present cover from Nathaniel Greene, with important content. Here, General Greene is trying to procure quality "pormanteaus" (suitcases) for officers as they prepare to break up camp and travel to New York for the coming campaigns.
The ALS from Nathaniel Greene reads in part: "In order to lessen the Quantity of Baggage in this Army & enable it to move with the greater Ease, it is proposed to lay aside as much as possible, the use of Chests and Trunks. A large number of Portmanteaus and Valises is therefor become necessary for the Officers, and as I am informed some of these may be collected in Connecticut, I request the Favour of you to procure as many good leather Pormanteaus, of about middling Size, as can be got ready to send forward by or before the middle of May… If you can meet with any Canvas… suitable for Tents, Knapsacks &c. I should be glad you would purchase it for me… I take it for granted you have been informed of my appointment to the Office of Quarter-Master General of the Army of the United States, and it is in that Character I now apply to you."
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 190 |
 |
1778 (Apr. 18) Port Royal Va. to Lancaster Pa, re-addressed to York, datelined folded letter bearing manuscript "Port Royal" postmark and matching "6" rating, readdressed from Lancaster to York in order to reach the moving seat of Government, Very Fine, the 6 dwt rate from Port Royal to York Town.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
THE ONLY RECORDED PORT ROYAL POSTMARK DURING COLONIAL TIMES.
Provenance: E.N. Sampson
Illustrated, "The Posted Letter in Colonial and Revolutionary America 1628-1790", Alex L. Ter Braake, p. II-126.
View details and enlarged photo
|
Lot 191 |
 |
1778 (Apr. 27) Petersburg Va. to Fredericksburg Va. via Richmond, folded cover with docketing, bearing manuscript "To Richmond" and matching "Way 2-16" rating, received in Richmond with manuscript "2-16" rating totaled to "5-8"; light staining, Fine.
Estimate 500 - 750
View details and enlarged photo
|
|
