Lot
1053 
1847, 5¢ red brown, horizontal pair, four margins, tied by Alden N.Y. manuscript "X" cancels on 1848 buff cover to Liverpool, England, endorsed "Via Steamer from Boston", actually sent by private ship to Great Britain, reverse with "27 NO 1848, Liverpool, Ship" framed handstamp with matching "8" pence due rating handstamp ties pair, Very Fine and choice; with 1985 P.F. certificate. Scott No. 1 Estimate $2,000 - 3,000.
A RARE USE OF THE 1847 ISSUE ON MAIL CARRIED BY PRIVATE VESSEL DURING THE RETALIATORY RATE PERIOD, ONE OF ONLY SIX SUCH USES RECORDED.
The 10¢ postage paid the over-300 miles rate from Alden N.Y. to port of departure. Since the Retaliatory Rate (24¢) was not paid, the post office presumably made the decision to place this letter on board a private vessel bound for Great Britain. The 8 pence due was the standard rate for the combined British ship letter fee and inland postage. This cover avoided the retaliatory packet charges as it had been carried by private ship.
Realized: $2,400