Lot 125
1775 (May 3) Boston Ms. to New York N.Y. via Providence, datelined folded letter hand carried through the Rebel lines surrounding Boston, to Providence where placed in the King's Post with "PROVIDENCE / MAY 5" two-line postmark on flap, manuscript "3.8 - 10d" rating; some paper loss from wax removal, Fine, the 3 dwt 8 gr (10 pence) rate for 200-300 miles.
Estimate 7,500 - 10,000
THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THIS PROVIDENCE POSTMARK, AND AN EARLY COVER CIRCUMVENTING CENSORSHIP.
Dated 14 days after the battle of Lexington-Concord, the letter states: "…most of the letters both publick & private were open'd before they got here; & some of them stop'd; this letter goes by private conveyence to Providence to be put into the post office there & hope it will reach you."
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| Realized $9,500 |
