Lot
3226 
1873 (Jan. 28) Cairo, Egypt to Philadelphia Pa., cover bearing G.B. 4d vermilion and 6d ochre prepaying the 10d rate for 8d British packet and inland, 1d transatlantic and 1d U.S. inland, tied together by "B01" barred ovals, British P.O. "Cairo, JA 28, 73" origin cds, carried by P&O Pera from Alexandria Feb. 1st to Brindisi arriving Feb. 5th, red London Paid (2.10) transit cds and matching red "2" handstamp for 2¢ credit to U.S.; light overall toning, Very Fine and scarce use from Egypt. Estimate $300 - 400.
Senders could stipulate that letters from Alexandria to Great Britain should go via Southampton, but letters not so-endorsed would default to the steamship route via Brindisi, then overland by rail, a saving of five to seven days.
Realized: $240