You are in StampAuctionNetwork Unattended Live Bidding
. Note that by using SAN Unattended Live Bidding, you understand
that if your bid is successful, you will be invoiced at 1% of the Realized value, no cap and no minimum.
United States Philadelphia Domestic Mail: Domestic Uses includin
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3247
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
1774 (c.) Allentown Pa. to Philadelphia Pa. Folded cover from a correspondence to merchant John Mitchell endorsed "p Stag" at lower left, origin and dating based on evidence from other examples of this correspondence; some minor edge wear, Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200.
Joseph Borden operated a stage coach route that stopped in, and ran through, Allentown. "The stages were wagons with low sides and benches on the floor of the wagon. A crude canvas cover with canvas or leather side curtain protected the passengers from the weather. The wagons were unsprung… and…passengers suffered broken arms and legs due to being tossed about or out of the wagon. Stages overturned occasionally.
It is interesting to note that in September of 1777, the British defeated George Washington's troops at Brandywine Creek, Pennsylvania, prompting panic among the people of Philadelphia who now found themselves defenseless against British occupation.
Facing this threat, the state government ordered that several of the more important bells in Philadelphia be removed from the city to prevent the British from melting them down to forge weaponry. This included the bell from the Pennsylvania State House, the now famous Liberty Bell.
The Liberty Bell was secreted away from Philadelphia and taken to present-day Allentown, escorted by heavy guard and hidden on a hay wagon. It was taken to Zion Reformed Church, where soldiers hid it, along with several other prominent bells, under the church floor. The bell remained hidden in the church throughout the British occupation of Philadelphia, until June of 1778, when the bell was returned to the State House. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 350.00
Sold...US$ 350.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:52:51 EST
Sold For 350
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3248
Symbol:
"Phila/Delphia". Red two-line postmark on flap, magenta "29/IY" Franklin mark and matching "4" pence due rating port-to-port rate to Providence R.I., 1769 docketing; some reinforced fold splitting, Very Fine and scarce use with postmark not across flaps,ex-Hugh Feldman. Estimate; $400 - 600.
Letter was prepaid 4 pence for port-to-port rate per Act 5 Cap 25 of 1765. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 300.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:53:11 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3249
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
"Phila/Delphia". Red two-line postmark on flap of 1771 folded letter to Lancaster Pa., reddish "28/FE" Franklin mark backstamp and magenta "2" dwt (6 pence) rating for 60-100 miles, matching magenta "/10" local currency rating, Very Fine and scarce use with postmark not across flaps,ex-Carson, Siskin. Estimate; $500 - 750.
The recipient Jasper Yeates, was a Philadelphia jurist latter appointed by President Washington as a commissioner to confer with western Pennsylvania residents during the Whiskey Rebellion. The writer Will Mitchell writes regartding legal matters, and ends with "Do you think you could recommend a Tolerably handsome Dutch lass with some money to a Young Irish Friend of yours. Finally began to think of Matrimony seriously.". Est. $500-750 (Image)
Est. $500-750
Opening US$ 375.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:53:25 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3250
Symbol:
"Phila/Delphia". Red two-line postmark struck across flaps of 1771 folded letter to Salem Mass., magenta "18 MA" Franklin mark and red manuscript "4" pence prepaid rating for port to port rate, endorsed "p Post", Very Fine. Estimate; $300 - 400. Est. $300-400 (Image)
Est. $300-400
Opening US$ 300.00
Sold...US$ 300.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:53:36 EST
Sold For 300
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3251
Symbol:
Cat No: 10A
Philadelphia Pa., Sep 11. Blue cds ties 3¢ orange brown (10A), large to touched margins, deep rich color, on 1851 sealed printed circular to Hampton Ill., attractive and Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 110.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:53:54 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3252
Symbol:
Philada. Pa. Jun 4. Blue cds and matching rare italicized "20" rating handstamp on folded cover to Charleston S.c., endorsed "Care of Thomas Middleton Factor"; folds reinforced, F.-V.F. and scarce rating handstamp,Stets rarity 7. Estimate; $100 - 150. Est. $100-150 (Image)
Est. $100-150
Opening US$ 70.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:54:07 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3253
Symbol:
Philadelphia Pa., Jan 31. Blue cds with red "PAID" and "6" in double-ocatagon rating handstamps on 1852 folded letter to Millwell N.J. at double the 3¢ letter rate, Extremely Fine gem strikes. Estimate; $200 - 300.
This is an unusual use of the "6" double-octagon rating handstamp that was previously used only for incoming ship letters. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 150.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 14:54:18 EST
Sold For 0
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1709-1775 Colonial Peri
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3003
Symbol:
1712 (Jul. 2) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "pr mary hoop galley Capt John annis commdr" at bottom left, carried as endorsed by private ship "Mary Hoop" to London arriving Aug. 25th, London small "AV/25" bishop mark backstamp and "5" pence rating, which is crossed out and updated to "inall 9" pence due from addressee; some light staining, Fine and scarce early private ship letter. Estimate; $300 - 400. Est. $300-400 (Image)
Est. $300-400
Opening US$ 230.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:02:15 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3004
Symbol:
1712 (Aug. 29) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England via New York. Datelined folded letter from the Brown correspondence, privately carried to New York where transferred to private ship Andrews from New York Aug. 25th to Lisbon, put aboard the British mail packet Queen to Falmouth arrival Nov. 18th, then carried to London Foreign Post Office where rated at the "1/6" (1s 6d) Lisbon packet rate, which included carriage from Falmouth to London, passed to the London Inland Post Office where the inland postage to Liverpool (4d) was added and rerated "In all 1N10" for total due of 1s 10d, London "NO/21" Bishop backstamp, Very Fine,ex-Siskin. Estimate; $2,000 - 3,000.
THE ONLY RECORDED PHILADELPHIA LETTER VIA THE LISBON-FALMOUTH PACKET.
This letter was probably intended for the packet to Bristol, advertised as the Edgley. The Edgley never reached New York, but sailed into Philadelphia on May 3, 1712 for repairs. She did not return to Bristol, but left Philadelphia for Nevis on June 5th. The Edgley was the last advertised Bristol Packet. The Brown correspondence yielded the three recorded 1712-13 Bristol packet letters.
In 1712, only a letter via packet from Lisbon would have been charged 1s6d in London. Est. $2,000-3,000 (Image)
Est. $2,000-3,000
Opening US$ 1,500.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:02:33 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3005
Symbol:
1715 (Sep. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Datelined folded letter from the Brown correspondence, sent unpaid by private ship to London, mails ashore at Deal, London "NO/28" Bishop arrival backstamp and rated "Inall 7" pence inland postage due for 3d from Deal to London and 4d London to Liverpool, docketed as received Dec. 1st, 61 days transit; some edge wear, Very Fine and early ship letter. Estimate; $500 - 750. Est. $500-750 (Image)
Est. $500-750
Opening US$ 280.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:02:49 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3006
Symbol:
Cat No: Collection
1734 (Mar. 5) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter to Isaac Norris in care of the "Pennsylvania Coffee House", endorsed "via Bristoll", sent unpaid by private ship to Bristol where rated "5" pence due for 4d inland to London plus 1d ship fee, London "21/IV" Bishop backstamp, docketed received May 1st, 58 days transit; silked, toned file fold, Fine and scarce use endorsed for collection at a coffee house. Estimate; $400 - 600.
The Pennsylvania Coffee House provided a place for businessmen and politicians with an interest in the colony to meet for socializing and deal-making. Letters could be delivered there, and a ship's bag was available for patrons to deposit their letters for Philadelphia, paying the ship captain 1d. This coffee house was on Birchin Lane near the Lombard Street post office. Benjamin Franklin used this coffee house as his address at times during his stays in London in 1750s-60s. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 500.00
Sold...US$ 500.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:03:45 EST
Sold For 500
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3010
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
1746-1794 Philadelphia Private Ship Mail and Early Uses. Group of 15 folded covers, 12 carried by private ship, several with sender's ship-name endorsements and large group from Philadelphia to Bristol with various landing ports and rating, one early "Way 16" use to Philadelphia; etc.; mixed condition, F.-V.F. Estimate; $1,000 - 1,500. Est. $1,000-1,500 (Image)
Est. $1,000-1,500
Opening US$ 850.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:05:21 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3011
Symbol:
1748 (Oct. 10) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded cover with "Phi. paid dwt 3:8" written in Benjamin Franklin's hand (who was Postmaster at this time) for 3dwt (9d) inland to New York plus 8gr (1d) outgoing ship fee, first endorsement crossed out and updated to "p first ship from NYK", carried by private ship from New York Jan. 2nd to Dover arriving Apr. 15th for 106 day voyage, Dover "15/AP" Bishop backstamp and "4" pence due rating for 3¢ inland to London plus 1d ship fee, London "17/AP" arrival backstamp and rerated "4" pence due; some splitting reinforced, Very Fine, with 2019 P.F. certificate. Estimate; $7,500 - 10,000.
ONE OF ONLY TWO PREPAID SHIP LETTERS FROM PHILADELPHIA RECORDED.
Benjamin Franklin was the Philadelphia Postmaster from 1737 to 1753. Est. $7,500-10,000 (Image)
Est. $7,500-10,000
Opening US$ 13,000.00
Sold...US$ 13,000.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:06:57 EST
Sold For 13000
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3012
Symbol:
Cat No: Collection
1749 (Sep. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Manuscript docketing on inside of folded letter sheet to London, England addressed "To be left at the Pennsylvania Coffee-House in Birchin Lane", endorsed "pr the Dolphin, Capt LeGros, QDC" ship endorsement, carried as endorsed by Sloop Dolphin from Philadelphia Oct. 5th, London "2/DE" Bishop mark arrival backstamp and manuscript "10" pence due rating; tone spots and some splitting at folds, Fine and scarce use endorsed for collection at a coffee house. Estimate; $400 - 600.
London rated "10" pence due for a 1 oz. letter of two-times 4d inland plus 1d ship fee and 1d delivery.
The Pennsylvania Coffee House provided a place for businessmen and politicians with an interest in the colony to meet for socializing and deal-making. Letters could be delivered there, and a ship's bag was available for patrons to deposit their letters for Philadelphia, paying the ship captain 1d. This coffee house was on Birchin Lane near the Lombard Street post office. Benjamin Franklin used this coffee house as his address at times during his stays in London in 1750s-60s. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 375.00
Sold...US$ 375.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:07:33 EST
Sold For 375
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3017
Symbol:
1766 (Jun. 6) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter sent by private ship Jamaica from Philadelphia Jun. 6th to Dover arriving Aug. 10th, "Dover/Ship Lre" two-line entry handstamp and "4" pence due rating for 3rd inland plus 1d ship letter, London "10/IY" Bishop mark arrival backstamp, Very Fine and early ship letter. Estimate; $200 - 300. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 180.00
Sold...US$ 180.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:09:50 EST
Sold For 180
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3020
Symbol:
1768 (Nov. 7) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "p. Capt Falconer" at lower left, carried by ship "Pennsylvania Packet" from Philadelphia Nov. 7th to Plymouth arriving Dec. 11th, "Plymouth/Ship.Lre" two-line handstamp and rated "5" pence due for 4d inland plus 1d ship, some edge wear, Very Fine and early ship letter,ex-Arnell. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 110.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:11:12 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3022
Symbol:
1772 (Aug. 1) Philadelphia Pa. to London England. Folded cover addressed to Thomas Penn, Proprietor of Pennsylvania Colony, sent unpaid by private ship Snow Charlotte from Philadelphia Aug. 12th to Waterford arriving Sep. 21st, entered mails with "WATERFORD" straightline with matching "SHIP" handstamp and manuscript "9" for 8d inland (2x 4d) to Dublin plus 1d ship fee, London "21/SE" bishop mark backstamp and manuscript "1/9" due rating for 1sh packet to London (2 x 6d) plus the 9d previously rated and crossed out; some fold splitting, Very Fine. Estimate; $1,000 - 1,500.
THE ONLY RECORDED "WATERFORD" STRAIGHTLINE POSTMARK. Est. $1,000-1,500 (Image)
Est. $1,000-1,500
Opening US$ 1,300.00
Sold...US$ 1,300.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:12:22 EST
Sold For 1300
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3026
Symbol:
1774 (Apr. 5) Philadelphia Pa. to Ballymoney, Ireland via London. Folded letter with light "PHIL/DELPHIA" two-line red backstamp with matching light "5 AP" Franklin mark backstamp, "New-York" straightline backstamp and red manuscript "To pay 6" rating as a debit to London for colonial inland postage, carried by packet Mercury from New York Apr. 7th to Falmouth arriving May 26th, London "28/MA" bishop mark backstamp and "IND. AND PACT./POSTAGE two-line handstamp applied and manuscript "1/6" due for 6d Colonial inland plus 1sh packet postage, London rerated "Inall 2/4" to include 6d to Ireland plus 4d Irish inland, Dublin incorrectly rerated "2/8" due; staining and faults, Fine and rare,ex-Hugh Feldman. Estimate; $1,500 - 2,000.
ONE OF ONLY NINE RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE LONDON "IND. AND PACT./POSTAGE".
In February 1756, William Franklin, GPO Comptroller in Philadelphia, issued a notice that packet letters from New York to London must be prepaid for both packet and American inland postage; single rates were 4dwt (1/-) and 2dwt (6d), respectively. This edict was not regularly followed, and Britain did not demand prepayment of incoming packet letters from America until 1784. In the early 1770s London used three different handstamps to inform addressees of their additional postage due. Est. $1,500-2,000 (Image)
Est. $1,500-2,000
Opening US$ 1,800.00
Sold...US$ 1,800.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:14:07 EST
Sold For 1800
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3028
Symbol:
1774 (Jul. 15) Philadelphia Pa. to Poole, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "favoured P - Captn. M Causlane via London" sent unpaid by private ship Jane from Philadelphia Jul. 18th to Deal arriving Aug. 20th, Deal "20/AV" arrival backstamp and manuscript "4" pence due (3d inland to London plus 1d ship), London rerated "Inall 8" pence due for the 4d plus 4d inland to Poole, the letter is to a British owner of property in Bucks County Pa. describing extensive damage done by revolutionaries, Very Fine. Estimate; $400 - 600.
Deal is on the southeast coast, about 70 miles by sea from London. Putting the London mails ashore at Deal saved at least a day, more if wind and tides were adverse. The time saved was partly offset by the addressee having to pay an additional three pence inland postage to London. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 450.00
Sold...US$ 450.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:14:45 EST
Sold For 450
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3029
Symbol:
1774 (Sep. 3) Philadelphia Pa. to Poole, England. Datelined folded letter with red clear strike of red "PHILA/DELPHIA" two-line backstamp on flap and matching red "6 SE" Franklin mark, endorsed "p Packet via New York" at bottom left, "NEW-YORK" straightline on other flap with light strike of "7 SE" Franklin mark over Philadelphia straightline, red manuscript "To pay 1/" rating for double-rate debit to London for colonial inland postage, carried by packet Mercury from New York Sep. 8th to Falmouth arriving Oct. 8th, London "11/OC" bishop mark backstamp and matching "INLAND AND/PACKET POSTAGE" two-line handstamp on front with manuscript "3N" postage due for inland plus two-times packet postage, re-rated "3N8" 3sh8d due for 8d inland to Poole, beautifully written letter concerns contains a draft of "Durham Lands" divisions and sales; wear and small paper loss on one flap which does not affect any markings, splitting along folds, Very Fine and rare colonial packet letter,ex-Hahn. Estimate; $4,000 - 6,000.
AN EXCEPTIONAL PACKET LETTER WITH MARKINGS OF THREE CITIES, INCLUDING ONE OF ONLY EIGHT RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE LONDON "INLAND AND PACKET POSTAGE" HANDSTAMP.
Six types of London postmarks denote unpaid American and packet postage. All are rare. Est. $4,000-6,000 (Image)
Est. $4,000-6,000
Opening US$ 5,000.00
Sold...US$ 5,000.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:15:29 EST
Sold For 5000
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3030
Symbol:
1775 (Apr. 4) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter addressed to Jamaica Coffee House, light strike of "PHILA Apr: 4" straightline postmark on flap, endorsed "p packet" at bottom left, red "N. York Ap: 5" straightline backstamp with manuscript "To Pay 6d" as debit to London for colonial inland postage, carried by packet Duke of Cumberland from New York Apr. 6th to Falmouth May 4th, London "4/MA" Bishop mark backstamps and matching clear strike of "AMN. & PACT./POSTAGE" two-line handstamp and manuscript "1/6" 1sh6d due for colonial inland plus packet postage, Very Fine and exceptional packet letter with markings of three cities.,ex-Hahn. Estimate; $5,000 - 7,500.
ONE OF ONLY TWO RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE "PHILA" STRAIGHTLINE RECORDED ON FOREIGN MAIL, AND THE ONLY RECORDED EXAMPLE OF THE LONDON "AMN. & PACT./POSTAGE" HANDSTAMP.
Letter includes an invoice and discusses loading the brig Rachel to Madeira, and the great scarcity of money. Two weeks to the day after this letter was written, Paul Revere warned Sam Adams that 100 British soldiers were on their way to Concord to destroy arms. Est. $5,000-7,500 (Image)
Est. $5,000-7,500
Opening US$ 4,750.00
Sold...US$ 4,750.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:16:16 EST
Sold For 4750
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1775-1784 Revolutionary
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3031
Symbol:
Cat No: Blockade
1775 (Aug. 2) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded letter with Quaker dateline "Philada. 8 mo 2d 1775" from Samuel Pleasants to James Gordon in London, blockade run by ship Chalklet from Philadelphia Aug. 9th to Bristol arriving Sep. 17th, entered mails with "BRISTOL/SHIP LRE" two-line handstamp and manuscript "5" pence rating for 4d inland plus 1d ship fee, London, Very Fine early Revolutionary War ship letter from the Colonies to England through the American privateer blockade,ex-Siskin, Dr. Robertson, Walske. Estimate; $1,500 - 2,000.
THE ONLY RECORDED REVOLUTIONARY WAR BLOCKADE-RUN COVER THROUGH THE AMERICAN PRIVATEER BLOCKADE OF DELAWARE BAY.
American privateers began attacking British shipping in the Spring of 1775. As America's largest city, Philadelphia was a center of trade, so British vessels in or out of Delaware Bay offered attractive prizes. By the Summer of 1775 Royal Navy warships were patrolling the mid-Atlantic coast between Cape Henlopen and Chesapeake Bay to thwart privateer attacks.
"Fifteen large galliots carrying at their bows from 32 to 48 pounders, swivels, etc. and fifty men each, are built at Philadelphia, and are to be stationed in Delawar [sic] River about Redbank, to oppose any men of war, who may attempt to come up the river, and to defend the machines sunk in that narrow part of the river." from The Ipswich Journal, England, 23 September 1775
Delaware Bay was not under a British blockade until March 1776 when the frigate HMS Roebuck entered Delaware Bay and stood off Lewes. Despite defensive measures along the Delaware, Philadelphia was invaded and occupied in September 1777. Est. $1,500-2,000 (Image)
Est. $1,500-2,000
Opening US$ 6,250.00
Sold...US$ 6,250.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:18:36 EST
Sold For 6250
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3033
Symbol:
1782 (Sep. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter carried by private ship through the British blockade, reverse with Temple Receiving House "Payd Penny Post" triangular backstamp and "19, O'Clock" circular handstamp, docketed across face as received Feb. 12th 1783; toning and some separation, Fine and scarce Revolutionary War blockade-run use. Estimate; $300 - 400. Est. $300-400 (Image)
Est. $300-400
Opening US$ 220.00
Sold...US$ 220.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:19:56 EST
Sold For 220
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1784-1807 Post-War Peri
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3039
Symbol:
1787 (Aug. 21) Philadelphia Pa. to Cork, Ireland. Datelined folded letter with partial "New-York Sep 5" straightline and manuscript "1/-" due rating for 1sh packet fee, carried by Falmouth packet Grantham from New York Sep. 8th to Falmouth arriving Oct. 2nd, London (10.3) backstamp and manuscript "1/6" due rating, Cork rerated "1/10" due for 1s packet fee plus 10d inland postage; small stain spot, F.-V.F.,ex-Feldman. Estimate; $200 - 300. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 150.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:22:30 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3043
Symbol:
Cat No: Dutch West Indies
1791 (Dec. 20) St. Croix, DWI to Philadelphia Pa. Granite folded letter endorsed "p Brig Hannah, Capt Thos Kenney, DDC" at bottom left and manuscript "2d." (16 grains) at top right for ship fee; accompanied by 1843 ship letter from St. Croix to Newark N.J. with red Philadelphia cds and "Ship" handstamp, Very Fine pair. Estimate; $200 - 300. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 210.00
Sold...US$ 210.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:23:39 EST
Sold For 210
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3057
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
1807 (Feb. 13) Philadelphia Pa. to Leeds, England. Datelined folded letter sent unpaid by private ship, endorsed "Latona" but crossed out and sent on Ship Abigail from Philadelphia Feb. 14th to Hull, entered mails with "Ship Letter, Hull" crown oval and manuscript "1/10" 1s10d due rating for two-times 7d inland plus 4d ship fee; some edge flaws and fold splitting, F.-V.F. and rare,Illustrated in Robertson, ex-Allan Robertson. Estimate; $750 - 1,000.
Private ships were often the wiser choice for senders in British colonies, as they could offer a more direct route - and very possibly a faster one - than sending a letter via the GPO in London. Est. $750-1,000 (Image)
Est. $750-1,000
Opening US$ 575.00
Sold...US$ 575.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:30:09 EST
Sold For 575
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1811-1815 War of 1812 P
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3059
Symbol:
1813 (Oct. 23) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England via Gibraltar. Datelined folded letter by cartel ship through the mid-Atlantic blockade from Philadelphia Nov. 22nd to Madeira, then by Packet Montague from Madeira Jan. 2nd to Scilly arriving Jan. 14th, driven ashore in gale, processed through London's Foreign Letter Office on Jan. 25, 1814 with strike of "Foreign JA 25, 1814" double-circle datestamp on flap, manuscript "5/2" for double the 2s7d packet rate from Madeira less 2p Foreign Office rebate, Very Fine and rare Cartel Ship use through Blockade,ex-Arnell, Walske. Estimate; $750 - 1,000.
Cartel ship advertised for Madeira at 25¢ per letter as fee to Captain. From Poulson's American Daily Advertiser, Philadelphia, Nov. 19, 1813, p. 3: "Letter bags for England and Ireland will be forwarded on Monday Evening next the 22d inst. from the Marchants' Coffee House, by a vessel for Madeira from whence they will be sent to those places by a respectable house at Madeira". London's Foreign Letter Office processed mail to and from the European Continent, letters handled by this office were entitled to a 2p deduction from the published rates.
Privateering threatened packets to New York, so service was halted in March 1813. By GPO notice of 11 March 1814: "HM pkts having ceased to go to NY you are to cease receiving letters with pkt postage to the USA. Only ship letter bags may occasionally be sent." Britain announced the blockade of Delaware River on 5 February 1813, New York Harbor on 26 May 1814, and Boston Harbor on 25 April 1814.
Reference: "British Long Distance Mail Packets 1793-1815", by Tabeart, C., 2019, Illustrated and Discussed on p. 412. Est. $750-1,000 (Image)
Est. $750-1,000
Opening US$ 725.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:31:05 EST
Sold For 0
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1819-1839 Post-War Peri
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3067
Symbol:
(Bevans & Humphreys Line of Philadelphia) 1819 (Oct. 14) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "Telegraph." at lower left, sent unpaid, red "Ship Telegraph, H. Coffin." purser handstamp, carried by Ship Telegraph from Philadelphia Oct. 18th to Liverpool arriving Nov. 14th, "Liverpool/Ship Letter" framed handstamp and manuscript "8" pence due ship rating, docketed as received Nov. 15th; file folds and tone spot, Fine and rare marking. Estimate; $200 - 300.
ONE OF ONLY TWO RECORDED EXAMPLES OF THE FANCY "SHIP TELEGRAPH, H. COFFIN" HANDSTAMP. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 160.00
Sold...US$ 160.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:35:10 EST
Sold For 160
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3068
Symbol:
(Carrington Line of Providence, R.I.) 1820 (Apr. 14) Baltimore Md. to Liverpool, England. Folded letter datelined "Sea View April 14th 1820", sent privately to Philadelphia, endorsed for "Bainbridge" but sent on Ship Superior from Philadelphia Apr. 29th to Liverpool arriving Jun. 10th, "Liverpool, Ship Letter" two-line framed handstamp and manuscript "8" pence due ship rating, returned via Philadelphia by Ship Stranger from Liverpool Jun. 24th to Philadelphia arriving Aug. 23rd, entered mails with red "Phil, 23, Aug" cds and matching "SHIP" handstamp with manuscript "14½" due rating to Baltimore; some edge wear, F.-V.F. Estimate; $200 - 300. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 160.00
Sold...US$ 160.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:35:33 EST
Sold For 160
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3070
Symbol:
(Cope Line) 1824 (Jun. 17) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "Montezuma" at bottom left, clear strike of brownish "MONTEZUMA" name-of-ship straightline, carried by Cope Line Montezuma from Philadelphia Jun. 20th to Liverpool arriving Jul. 13th, cover tear with wrinkling and edge wear, Fine and rare,ex-Mayer, Hahn. Estimate; $400 - 600.
ONE OF ONLY THREE RECORDED COPE LINE "MONTEZUMA" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMPS. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 300.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:36:14 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3071
Symbol:
(Cope Line) 1824 (c., Jun. 20) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded cover docketed from Philadelphia endorsed "p. Montezuma" at bottom left, brownish "MONTEZUMA" name-of-ship straightline, carried by Cope Line Montezuma from Philadelphia Jun. 20th to Liverpool arriving Jul. 13th, reverse with "Liverpool, Ship Letter" framed handstamp and manuscript "3/2" rating for double the 11d inland postage and 8d ship rate, red London (7.15.1824) arrival backstamp; light cover stain, F.-V.F. Estimate; $400 - 600.
ONE OF ONLY THREE RECORDED COPE LINE "MONTEZUMA" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMPS. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 325.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:36:31 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3072
Symbol:
(Walker Line) 1824 (c., Jun. 22) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded cover endorsed "per Ship Julius Caesar" at lower left, clear strike of brownish "JULIUS CAESAR" straightline name-of-ship straightline applied by ship pursor, sent unpaid by Ship Julius Caesar from Philadelphia Jun. 22nd to Liverpool arriving Jul. 18th, "Liverpool, Ship Letter" two-line framed backstamp and manuscript "1/7" due rating for 11d inland plus 8d ship, London red (7.19.1824) arrival backstamp, Very Fine and rare,ex-Hugh Feldman. Estimate; $750 - 1,000.
ONE OF ONLY THREE RECORDED WALKER LINE "JULIUS CAESAR" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMPS. Est. $750-1,000 (Image)
Est. $750-1,000
Opening US$ 1,600.00
Sold...US$ 1,600.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:36:56 EST
Sold For 1600
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3073
Symbol:
(Hutchinson Line) 1824 (Jul. 10) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded letter Quaker-datelined "Philadelphia 7th mo: 10th 1824" endorsed "Wm Hodgson" at lower left, sent privately to Baltimore, "PARAGON" straightline name-of-boat handstamp applied by purser, carried by Brig Paragon from Baltimore Jul. 20th to Gravesend arriving Aug. 16th, clear strike of "Ship Letter, Gravesend" framed handstamp, London (8.16.1824) arrival backstamp with manuscript "1/2" due rating for 6d inland plus 8d ship, Extremely Fine and choice use,ex-Jarrett (realized $800 almost 30 years ago), Hugh Feldman. Estimate; $750 - 1,000.
THE ONLY RECORDED HUTCHINSON LINE "PARAGON" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMP. Est. $750-1,000 (Image)
Est. $750-1,000
Opening US$ 2,900.00
Sold...US$ 2,900.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:37:49 EST
Sold For 2900
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3074
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
(Cope Line) 1824 (Jul. 13) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter sent unpaid by private ship, brownish "ALGONQUIN" name-of-ship straightline applied by purser, carried by Ship Algonquin from Philadelphia Jul. 20th to Liverpool arriving Aug. 16th, partial "Ship Letter, Liverpool" rectangular backstamp, London (8.15) arrival backstamp and manuscript "1/7" due rating for 11d inland plus 8d ship, forwarded to Sussex with London (8.16) backstamp and manuscript "8" pence due rating, docketed received Aug. 17th; some wear, Fine and scarce use carried on the Maiden Voyage of the Cope Line "Algonquin",ex-Hugh Feldman. Estimate; $500 - 750.
ONE OF ONLY THREE RECORDED COPE LINE "ALGONQUIN" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMPS. Est. $500-750 (Image)
Est. $500-750
Opening US$ 400.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:38:13 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3075
Symbol:
(Cope Line) 1824 (Jul. 19) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Dateline on Consignor's folded letter, endorsed "Algonquin" at bottom left, clear strike of brownish "ALGONQUIN" name-of-ship straightline applied by purser, carried by Ship Algonquin from Philadelphia Jul. 20th to Liverpool arriving Aug. 16th; edge wear, Very Fine and scarce use carried on the Maiden Voyage of the Cope Line "Algonquin",ex-Hahn. Estimate; $500 - 750.
ONE OF ONLY THREE RECORDED COPE LINE "ALGONQUIN" STRAIGHTLINE NAME-OF-BOAT HANDSTAMPS. Est. $500-750 (Image)
Est. $500-750
Opening US$ 350.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:38:37 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3088
Symbol:
(Freight Money) 1839 (Feb. 12) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded letter with blue "Philadelphia Pa Feb 12" cds and matching framed "Paid" handstamp, pencil "50" and black manuscript "50" adjacent, red "New York, Feb 13" transit cds, endorsed "pr U. States packet of the 13th", red London (3.16) arrival backstamp and manuscript "4/9" due rating; file fold, Very Fine,ex-Carlin. Estimate; $200 - 300.
The 50¢ rate represents 12½¢ per sheet of paper for 2 sheets in the 80-150 miles zone and 12½¢ per sheet for freight money via sailing ship, the total postage paid for both U.S. and G.B. was $1.68, a whopping sum in 1839. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 160.00
Sold...US$ 160.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:46:57 EST
Sold For 160
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3089
Symbol:
1839 (Feb. 23) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England via Bristol. Folded letter with blue "Philadelphia Pa., Feb 23" cds and matching framed "Paid" handstamp with manuscript "37½" for 12½¢ to New York plus 25¢ steamship freight money, carried as endorsed by Great Western Steamship Co. Great Western from New York Feb. 25th to Bristol arriving Mar. 13th, "Bristol, Ship-Letter" framed handstamp and manuscript "1/5" due rating for 9d inland plus 8d ship fee, Very Fine. Estimate; $200 - 300.
Freight money was a fee charged by shipping companies for carrying letters from New York to Great Britain. In May 1838, private steamships began charging 25 cents per sheet; sailing ships responded by charging only 12½ cents. The Postmaster General allowed postmasters to collect these fees and forward them to the New York Postmaster for delivery to the appropriate shipping companies.
The ship's revenue for this letter was collected by the Philadelphia post office on behalf of the company, and the amount added to postage to denote the total prepayment. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 170.00
Sold...US$ 170.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:47:26 EST
Sold For 170
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3090
Symbol:
1839 (Nov. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded letter with blue "Philada Pa. Nov 30" cds with matching "Paid" framed handstamp and manuscript "37½" combined freight money rating of 25¢ freight money fee for a steamship plus 12½¢ inland fee to N.Y., carried by British & American Steam Navigation Co. British Queen from New York Dec. 2nd to Gravesend arriving Dec. 25th, framed "Ship Letter/Gravesend" handstamp and London (12.26) backstamps, manuscript "1/" shilling due rating for 8d ship fee plus 4d uniform inland postage, Very Fine, ex-Winter. Estimate; $200 - 300.
The British Queen was the only steamship to arrive in the U.K. during the 35 day period (December 5, 1839-January 9, 1840) when a uniform 4d inland fee was in effect. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 300.00
Sold...US$ 300.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:48:34 EST
Sold For 300
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3091
Symbol:
1839 (Dec. 13) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter sent privately to New York, carried by Transatlantic Steamship Company Liverpool from New York Dec. 14th to Liverpool arriving Jan. 13, "Liverpool, Ship Letter" two-line backstamp and manuscript "8" pence due rating for uniform ship fee; file folds, F.-V.F., Carried on the last of seven voyage by theLiverpool., ex-Boetger, Feldman, Booth. Estimate; $300 - 400.
The Transatlantic Steamship Company, 1838-1840, had only two ships, which together made ten voyages. Est. $300-400 (Image)
Est. $300-400
Opening US$ 200.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:48:52 EST
Sold For 0
Philadelphia Foreign Mail: 1840-1848 Post-War Peri
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3093
Symbol:
1840 (Mar. 9) Philadelphia, Pa. to London, England. Folded cover showing blue "Philadelphia Pa. Nov 30" cds and matching "Paid" handstamp with "25" rating for 12½¢ inland postage plus 12½¢ freight money fee for sailing ship, carried by Blue Swallowtail Line Independence from New York Dec. 12th to Liverpool arriving Dec. 31st, "Liverpool/Ship Letter" two-line backstamp and matching "8" pence due handstamp for uniform ship fee, Extremely Fine freight money letter via sailing packet. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 110.00
Sold...US$ 110.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:49:42 EST
Sold For 110
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3094
Symbol:
1840 (Mar. 9) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Folded cover showing blue "Philada Pa. Mar 9" cds and matching "Paid" handstamp with "50" double rating for two-times 12½¢ inland postage plus two-times 12½¢ freight money fee for sailing ship, red "New-York Mar 10" cds, carried by Kermit Line Virginian from New York Mar. 13th to Liverpool arriving Apr. 15th, "Liverpool/Ship Letter" and London (4.16) backstamps, manuscript "8" pence due rating for uniform ship fee; light vertical folds, Very Fine,ex-Winter. Estimate; $200 - 300. Est. $200-300 (Image)
Est. $200-300
Opening US$ 220.00
Sold...US$ 220.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:50:07 EST
Sold For 220
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3095
Symbol:
1840 (Mar. 31) Philadelphia Pa. to Yorkshire, England. Datelined folded letter endorsed "p British Queen", blue "Philada. Pa. Mar 31" cds and matching framed "Paid" handstamp with manuscript "37½" prepaid rating for combined 25¢ Freight Money letter steamship fee plus 12½¢ inland, carried as endorsed on British & American Steam Navigation British Queen from New York Apr. 1st to Portsmouth arriving Apr. 16th, red framed "Ship Letter/Portsmouth" handstamp and Apr. 16th arrival backstamps, manuscript "8" pence due rating for uniform ship fee, Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 140.00
Sold...US$ 140.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:50:44 EST
Sold For 140
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3096
Symbol:
1840 (May 8) Philadelphia Pa. to Schiedam, Netherlands. Folded letter carried as endorsed by "Great Western" from New York May 9th to Bristol arriving May 23rd, red "Bristol Ship Letter" two-line handstamp with manuscript "8" pence ship letter rating, red London (5.25) arrival backstamp with manuscript "2/-" shilling debit to Holland, "Engeland over Rotterdam" two-line and Schiedam (5.29) backstamps, manuscript "120" Dutch Cents due rating, Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200.
Letter carried privately to New York where unspecified forwarding agent took letter to steamship agent and paid freight money fee. Letter never posted in U.S. mails. Bristol used red BRISTOL/SHIP LETTER handstamp (red 1840-1841 only) and marked 8 pence for the incoming ship letter fee. London debited Holland 2s (8d ship fee plus 1s4d letter fee from London to Holland). In Rotterdam the transit marking in red (shown above) was struck and the postage due was marked, consisting of 120 Dutch Cents to pay back G.B. plus 50 Dutch Cents inland fee for single letter. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 140.00
Sold...US$ 140.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:51:19 EST
Sold For 140
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3097
Symbol:
1840 (Jun. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to London, England. Datelined folded letter with blue "Philadelphia Pa., Jun 30" cds and matching framed "Paid" handstamp with manuscript "37½" prepaid rating for combined 25¢ Freight Money letter steamship fee plus 12½¢ inland, carried as endorsed on Great Western Steamship Co. Great Western from New York Jul. 1st to Bristol arriving Jul. 15th, red "Bristol/Ship Letter" two-line handstamp and manuscript "8" pence due rating for uniform ship fee, red London (7.16) arrival backstamp; file folds, Very Fine and attractive. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 120.00
Sold...US$ 120.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:51:43 EST
Sold For 120
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3098
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
1840 (Aug. 17) Philadelphia Pa. to Paris, France via Bristol. Datelined folded letter with blue "Philadelphia Pa., Aug 17" cds and matching framed "Paid" handstamp with manuscript "150" prepaid rating for combined four-times 25¢ Freight Money letter steamship fee plus 12½¢ inland for four sheets, carried as endorsed on Great Western Steamship Co. Great Western from New York Aug. 18th to Bristol arriving Sep. 1st, red "Bristol/Ship Letter" two-line handstamp and manuscript "1/4" rating for double the 8d uniform ship fee, London updated with manuscript "3/-" pence due rating for ½-1 oz letter double the 9d ship rate plus 10d to France, Paris "6fr/" for 36 decimes (3/- converted) plus 25 decimes inland (< 20g), fresh and Very Fine. Estimate; $300 - 400.
In most cities that collected the freight-money charge, the freight-money fee was accounted for separately. Only in Philadelphia did the post office add the two charges and show them as a single number. Est. $300-400 (Image)
Est. $300-400
Opening US$ 240.00
Sold...US$ 240.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:52:15 EST
Sold For 240
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3101
Symbol:
1841 (Jul. 12) Philadelphia Pa. to Liverpool, England. Datelined folded letter with clear strike of red "Forwd. From Harnden & Cos. Foreign Letter Office, Phila." in circular handstamp, carried by Harden to Boston, then by Cunard Line Britannia from Boston Jul. 17th to Liverpool arriving Jul. 29th, Liverpool "America/L" oval backstamp and matching "1/-" due handstamp for 1s packet rate, Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 160.00
Sold...US$ 160.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:53:10 EST
Sold For 160
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3103
Symbol:
1842 (May 13) Philadelphia Pa. to Yorkshire, England. Datelined folded letter with blue "Philadelphia Pa. May 13" cds and matching "Paid" double-octagon handstamp, with red "Forwarded from Harnden & Cos., Foreign Letter Office, Phila." circular handstamp, manuscript "37" rating for 25¢ freight money plus Harnden fee, carried by Cunard Caledonia from Boston May 16th to Liverpool arriving May 29th, "Liverpool/L" oval handstamp and matching "1/-" rating due handstamp for 1s packet rate, Very Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 140.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:53:53 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3104
Symbol:
1842 (Jun. 29) Philadelphia Pa. to Yorkshire, England. Datelined folded letter with red "Forwarded from Harnden & Cos., Foreign Letter Office, Phila." circular handstamp, entered mails with blue "Philadelphia Pa. Jun 29" cds and matching "Paid" double-octagon handstamp and manuscript "18¾" rating, carried by Cunard Britannia from Boston Jul. 2nd to Liverpool arriving Jul. 16th, bold "Liverpool/L" oval handstamp and matching "1/-" rating due handstamp for 1s packet rate, fresh and Extremely Fine. Estimate; $150 - 200. Est. $150-200 (Image)
Est. $150-200
Opening US$ 120.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:54:02 EST
Sold For 0
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3112
Symbol:
Cat No: Stampless
1845 (Dec. 30) Philadelphia Pa. to Paris, France. Folded cover with blue "Philadelphia Pa. Dec 30" cds with matching "Paid" and "10" rating handstamp, carried as endorsed by Cunard Line Acadia from Boston Jan. 1st to Liverpool arriving Jan. 14th, red London (1.16) backstamp and matching "Colonies/&c.Art.12" framed h.s., red Boulogne (1.18) entry cds with manuscript "15" decimes due rating, fresh and Very Fine. Estimate; $400 - 600.
Mails from this voyage reached London on January 16, 1846. This is the latest recorded use of the "Colonies/&c.Art.12" marking on mails from the United States.
The combination of the U.S. 5¢ and 10¢ internal rates and the "Colonies/&c.Art.12" marking was possible during a period of only about six and one half months. Less than 6 examples have been recorded. Est. $400-600 (Image)
Est. $400-600
Opening US$ 400.00
Sold...US$ 400.00
Closed..Oct-05-2019, 13:57:19 EST
Sold For 400
Sale No: 89
Lot No: 3114
Symbol:
1847 (Feb. 23) Philadelphia, Pa. to London, England. Folded cover with blue "Philadelphia Pa. Feb 23" cds with matching "Paid" framed handstamp and red crayon "30" combined rating for 25¢ steamship freight money fee plus 5¢ inland postage to N.Y., carried by Red Cross Line Sarah Sands from New York Feb. 24th to Liverpool arriving Mar. 17th, framed "Liverpool Ship 17MR1847" handstamp and London (3.18) backstamps, manuscript "8" pence due rating for ship fee, Very Fine, This was the maiden return voyage of Sarah Sands, ex-Winter. Estimate; $300 - 400.
The Sarah Sands of 1,400 tons was built for Sands & Company of Liverpool by James Hudson & Company, also of Liverpool as an iron screw propelled vessel and launched in September 1846. This was a late freight money letter usage and one of only two recorded carried by Red Cross Line Sarah Sands. Est. $300-400 (Image)
