1854 (May 23) Mourning env. from Rome to Philadelphia "Per steamer via Liverpool" with 1st-Issue Papal States 6b (near 4m) plus 2nd-Issue Papal States 8b (4; margins mostly clear) all tied by mainly fine 2-ring "ROMA" cds's with French transit cds ("E. POST./2 ST. LOUIS 2") and "5/N. YORK BRITISH PKT" cds on the front. Addressed to Joshua Francis Fisher (1807-1878) a prominent Philadelphian and once vice president of the Philadelphia historical society. A ridiculously rare incoming item to the USA, exhibition quality. (Image)

1867 J. DELPIERRE Essay on cardboard combining photography of Pope Pius IX, added red frame and "1 Scudo" value in reverse, no gum, very fine an possibly unique, cert. Sorani, ex Harris (Image)