Whittelsey's Express, Chicago Ill., 2c Red (146L1). Large to huge margins, this position shows break in cliche at upper right, intense shade and impression, neatly cancelled by blue "Whittelsey's Letter Express" oval

EXTREMELY FINE GEM. UNQUESTIONABLY THE FINEST OF THE FOUR RECORDED USED EXAMPLES. ASTOUNDING CONDITION FOR ANY LOCAL POST STAMP, BUT ESPECIALLY SO FOR THIS EXTREME RARITY.

According to Henry E. Abt's series on Chicago local posts (American Philatelist, Aug. 1957), Whittelsey & Co. started its express in late 1857. The 1857-58 Cooke's directory lists Whittelsey & Co. at 194 Lake Street, but the following year the firm does not appear -- it evidently folded, and the Whittelseys moved West. The proprietors are identified as Edmund A. and Samuel M. Whittelsey, who were first cousins, according to Dr. D. E. F. Easton (Scott's Monthly Journal, May 1956).

Apart from the block of twelve, ex Hall, only a few unused singles are known, as well as six used examples. No covers are known.

Ex Golden and D.K. Collection. With 1999 P.F. certificate

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