Lot
1261 
1856, 5¢ red brown, clear large margins, rich bright color, tied by "New Orleans, La., Dec 7" cds on 1856 folded letter to Chalon sur Saone, France, red "New York, Br. Pkt., Dec 16" cds, Calais entry and bold "13" decimes due handstamp, reverse with red Liverpool transit and receiving postmarks; couple small cover tears at top, Very Fine and attractive. Scott No. 12 Estimate $400 - 600.
This is a late example of the "French Decree" rate. On January 1, 1857 the French due rate dropped from 13 decimes to 8 decimes (the so-called "Three Months" rate, which was in effect only until April first).
Realized: $625