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.
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