Lot 21
U.S. 1847, 10¢ black (2), bottom sheet margin single, position 99R, mostly large to gigantic margins except just in at upper left, tied by red square grid and magenta "U.S." in manuscript, on 1851 folded letter to Hamilton, Canada, clear "New-York Apl. 6" c.d.s. at right, the First Day of the U.S.-Canada Treaty Rate, black Queenston exchange postmark dated Apr. 8, 1851, reverse with Hamilton Apr. 9, 1851 receiving postmark, Very Fine usage.
Estimate 20,000 - 30,000
THE ONLY RECORDED FIRST DAY OF NEW RATE COVER AS WELL AS THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF A MANUSCRIPT EXCHANGE OFFICE MARKING.
Provenance: Pope
Prior to April 6, 1851, postage rates between the United States and Canada were rather confusing and cumbersome. A case in point- Canadians could prepay the postage to the U.S., but not the other way around. Or, what would be a triple weight cover in the United States was charged as a quadruple rate in Canada. Then, as of April 6, 1851, a combined rate was established between the United States and Canada. Six pence or 10 cents per 1/2 oz. between anywhere in Canada and the U.S. except 9d or 15c to California or Oregon, with prepayment optional, part payment not recognized. A similar agreement was established with the Maritime provinces as of July 6, 1851
This the only franked cover marking the "occasion" of the first day of the establishment of uniform rates. Its importance is further enhanced by the clear date and year on the front of the envelope.
|
| |
| Realized $62,500 |
