10c Black, Diagonal Half Used as 5c (2a). Top right diagonal half, Position 57L1 clearly showing harelip variety, large margins, tied across the cut by red grid cancel, matching "New-Haven Ct. 14 Jun." circular datestamp on 1851 folded cover to Birmingham Conn., horizontal file fold well away from stamp, cover tear in area of circular datestamp

VERY FINE. A RARE DIAGONAL BISECT OF THE 10-CENT 1847 ISSUE, USED TO PAY THE 5-CENT UNDER-300 MILES RATE JUST A FEW WEEKS PRIOR TO DEMONETIZATION OF THE 1847 ISSUE.

Effective July 1, 1851, the basic letter rate was reduced to 3c for domestic letters sent up to 3,000 miles. New stamps were issued to accommodate the new rates, and the old stamps were demonetized and invalid for postage after June 30, 1851. This letter was sent June 13, 1851, just prior to demonetization, and one day after the bisect offered in the following lot.

Unlisted in Alexander census.

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