Confederacy, Adams. Express. Co. Charleston S.C. MA 11, blue oval handstamp on U.S. 3¢ star die entire (U27) addressed to Hendrick & Co. at New York N.Y., endorsed "Per Adams & Co. Express"; sealed vertical tear at right, Fine, Ex-Welch. Estimate  $400 - 600. ONE OF LESS THAN 5 RECORDED ADAMS & CO. CHARLESTON S.C. EXPRESS USAGES. As uncertainties surrounding the likelihood of war grew, the established private express firms were sometimes used to carry valuable or important correspondence. With offices in many cities, including Charleston, the Adams Express Co. was usually chosen. U.S. postal regulations permitted such private means of conveyance, but required that U.S. postage be paid in addition to company fees, whether or not the U.S. mails were even utilized. $0 (Image)

Confederacy, Adams. Express. Co. Charleston S.C. May 17, partial strike of blue oval handstamp on U.S. 3¢ star die entire (U27) addressed to Philadelphia Pa., endorsed "By Adams Express Co." at top, entered U.S. mails for local delivery with "U.S. P.O. Despatch, Phila, May 24, 11 AM" octagonal datestamp with partial "Drop 1 ct" circular handstamp, additional manuscript "Paid R" at top center; no flap, tape stain and tears at top, Fine, a rare to-the-mails use from the C.S.A. Estimate  $500 - 750. ONE OF LESS THAN 5 RECORDED ADAMS & CO. CHARLESTON S.C. EXPRESS USAGES. $0 (Image)