Tree of Flags with "Union". In red and blue (Weiss F-T-103/L-2856) franked with an 1861 10¢ yellow green (straight edge at right) tied by clear undated "N. York/Steamship" in circle with bold handstamped "Due 10"; manuscript "From U.S.S. Lancaster, Harbor of Acapulco, Mexico", trivial reduction at right (not affecting adhesive), fresh and Very Fine, a very rare rare usage of a Patriotic cover. Scott No. 68  Estimate $300 - 400. The U.S.S. Lancaster, a screw sloop-of-war departed Delaware Bay on 27 July 1859 for the Pacific. After rounding Cape Horn she reached Panama Bay on 6 December. She served as flagship of the Pacific Squadron until 1866, cruising along the coast of South and Central America, Mexico, and California to protect American commerce and the Pacific mail steamers. $0 (Image)