Lot
2111 
Danish West Indies, 1796 (Jul. 22) St. Thomas, D.W.I. to Philadelphia Pa., gray folded letter endorsed "fav'd by Captn. Lawson, Schooner Betsy", entered mails with Philadelphia "4" cent due rating for 4¢ local ship rate, docketed as received Aug. 13th, Very Fine and rare early incoming use. Estimate $500 - 750.
Philadelphia was the earliest, and only U.S. port to employ a Ship "4" due handstamp for the 4¢ ship rate for delivery at port of entry.