Lot 954
1815 (Apr. 15) Bergen, Norway to Providence, R.I. via London and New York, folded cover docketed from "Herman D. Johnson & Sons, Bergen dated 15th April", endorsed "p Acastus" at lower left to London, reverse with "Post Paid Withdrawn Ship Letter London, 9 JU 9, 1815" double-circle datestamp across flaps and manuscript "2/1" 2s1d rating, endorsement updated by ship "P. Rolla", red "New-York, Aug 29" cds and and matching "Ship" handstamp with manuscript "78½" rating (3 x 17¢ plus 50% war rate surcharge + 2¢ ship fee), Very Fine and choice London withdrawn ship letter use from Norway.Estimate $1,000 - 1,500.
The Act of October 10th 1814, made it illegal to place an outbound letter on any ship privately, unless the letter had first been presented to the British Post Office and a fee paid equal to one-third of the combined inland and sea packet postage. Upon payment, the letter received the "Withdrawn Ship Letter" handstamp and the sender was allowed to send the letter by any ship of his choice. In that the Post Office was providing no service at all for this little used and unpopular act, it as terminated on July 11th 1815.
Realized: $2,900