Americana Stamps

Lot #: 3016

1796 Ship Letter, Jamaica to Philadelphia, Baltimire Straightline

Scarce 16 1/2 Cent Rate, Only 5-6 Estimated

"BALT" Straightline on folded letter addressed to John Dutilh (of Dutilh and Wachsmuth) in Philadelphia. Datelined "Jerrenie 25th April 1796." Rated 16 1/2 cents, consisting of 12 1/2 cents for the distance of 100-150 miles between Baltimore, the port of entry, and Philadelphia, the destination, plus the 4 cents ship fee in effect from 1792 to 1799.

According to the American Stampless Cover Catalog, the Baltimore straightline marking was used from 1793 to 1797. The ASCC states that "Numerous minor varieties of this marking are known." This one has a period after the month.

The letter contains notice of a ship sailing with a cargo of coffee and requests $4000 insurance coverage.

Opening: $390
Estimate: $650 - $750
Category: US Stampless, 18th Century