Lot
1175 
Nova Scotia, 1877 (Jan. 12) Halifax N.S. to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, cover addressed to Capt Babiu, Brig "Zeno" care of the British Consul, bearing Canada 1873, 3¢ orange red (37), two horizontal strip of three, tied by strikes of "Halifax N.S., JA 12 77" cds, carried by Cunard Line Beta via Bermuda to St. Thomas (1.31 backstamp), sent back to Halifax by Cunard Line Beta on her return voyage, "Halifax N.S., FE 10 77" backstamp and matching "Returned / For / Postage" three-line handstamp, "Dead Letter Office, Canada, FE 17 1877" backstamp; two 3¢ stamps with tears, small erosion hole top right, Fine appearance. Estimate $2,000 - 3,000.
The United States and Brazil Mail Steamship Company had stopped their services in Autumn 1875. The corresponding 18¢ rate was still advertised in January 1876. The only route available at this time was via England to Brazil.
Realized: $1,800