1851 (Jun. 13) Angouleme, France to San Francisco Cal., June 13th cover with red "Angouleme 13 Juin '51" origin cds with "PD" and "P.P." framed handstamp. with manuscript "2.80" 2fr80c paid rating on reverse for transit fees via Panama by West Indies route, red London (6.16) transit, carried by RMSPC Medway from Southampton June 17 to Chagres arriving July 11, San Francisco red "20" cents due rating, reverse with "Reynolds & Co.'s Express, San Francisco, Stockton & Sonora" blue oval handstamp with matching "Not Paid" in oval handstamp, Very Fine, rare 28 décimes rate via Panama to California with express company handling, one of only two recorded. Estimate  $1,000 - 1,500. Letter endorsed for British route to Panama, a 2 Franc 80 centime rate for eight months only, and paid in cash (manuscript on reverse). Empire City Line steamer Constitution carried letter from Panama City to San Francisco. French prepayment was to Panama only leaving 20¢ postage due for American contract steamer transit to San Francisco. Letter carried from San Francisco to the northern gold fields by Reynolds & Co. Express for an additional charge of $1.00. $0 (Image)