1861 (Jul. 3) Washington D.C. to Guatemala, orange buff cover to Mr. S.N. Hilton, U.S. Legation, Guatemala, care of Mr. Corwine, U.S. Consul, Panama, bearing 3¢ dull red (26), 5¢ brown (30A) and 12¢ black (36B) single and pair, all with some scissor cut perfs, tied by two strikes of "Washington City, D.C. 'Free' Jul 3, 1861" cds, black "6"due rating handstamp; corner mend and reduced at ends, Fine. Estimate  $300 - 400. A scarce franking apparently overpaying the 34¢ per ½ oz. American packet rate via Panama, then British packet to destination (effective October 1860 to September 1862). Previously, the rate for distances over 2,500 miles had been 44¢ per ½ oz., and it is possible the sender thought the rate still applied. $0 (Image)