German States - North German Confederation. 1868 (Jan 13). Envelope from Hamburg to Curacao with Prussia 10sgr in combination with NDP 1/4gr and two 2gr all tied by blue Hamburg double circle ds, paying the 12 1/4gr single rate, carried to London with "1/2" accountancy marking and "12 1/2 / CENTS" hs (not recorded by Van de Linden or Tabeart), then from Southampton on board RMSPC "Atrato" to St. Thomas and thence by non-contract ship to Curaçao with red arrival ds on front; 1/4gr with small corner crease mentioned for accuracy, otherwise in exceptional condition in particular the Prussia 10sgr which is only rarely found in this perfect condition; a very early usage of the first NDP issue on the 13th day of sale and certainly one of the finest of the few known covers to Curaçao; cert. Flemming (2004). Note: No contract line called at Curaçao until the extension of the French line "L" in October 1869. (Image)