Lot
434 
Soldiers Letter/24th Regt. Mass. Vol/N.E.G. Bold handstamp on lemon cover to New York with "U.S. Ship/3 Cts" handstamp, slightly reduced at right, Very Fine. Estimate $200 - 300.
According to the ASCC (U.S. Ship Markings) This type marking is known to have been issued to New York, Boston, and possibly Philadelphia as early as July 1861. The lack of dates and townmarks has made it difficult to attribute the markings to any specific port. This marking was used to indicate that only the 3c per half ounce letter rate was to be collected as Federal army and navy troops could send their mail collect without penalty or without being subjected to the Ship Captains 2c gratuity. Pencil "May 8 1862" docketing along the bottom. Dyer (Frederick H. - A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion) lists the 24th Regt., Massachusetts as "Expedition to Columbia March 8-9, and to New Berne, N.C., March 14. Guard, picket and outpost duty at New Berne till January 22, 1863." According to the previous owner the "N.E.G." represents New England Guard. Regimental summary attached.
Realized: $170