China - U.S. Offices, 1871 "China and Japan Steam Service". Red oval postmark on cover to Pennsylvania franked with 10¢ Banknote tied to cover by fancy cork cancel and with San Francisco cds at left, includes original letter datelined 1871 and written from the steamship (mentions C.W. and Julia Mateer), this letter was probably transferred from the original ship going East to a Westbound ship which was not an uncommon occurrence, Very Fine, a spectacular cover and a great rarity. Scott No. 150  Estimate $4,000 - 5,000. Banknote Issue usages with the China & Japan Steam Service oval have reportedly existed on only 2 or 3 covers. It appears, however, that this cover may be the first Banknote franked usage to be publicly offered - a great rarity and the highlight of any Banknote issue exhibit collection! . $0 (Image)