1857 10k brown and blue Coat of Arms on Folded Letter, mailed in 1858 from Samara to Saratov (boxed receiver on back dated 12 February 1858), with two page letter inside written in cursive. The stamp has three large margins and the bottom is clear of the outer frameline. It is tied to the cover by a large double ring c.d.s. as well as a fairly light pen cancel. Opening tear on back has been neatly mended with stamp hinges, still very fine and a great example of Russia's first stamp on cover. (Image)

Scott $ 3,000