"Saved from the Wreck of the Steamship Stella, April 2 '65". Red manuscript endorsement with postmaster's signature on red and blue George Washington and Flag Patriotic cover with sender's notation "(Co)me and be drafted...can't see it" (probably a draft evader), originated in Peru and addressed to Union Me., red "Paid at Callao" crown-circle handstamp, "A Callao FE 27 65" British P.O. backstamp, "Forwarded by Crosby & Co. Ship Chandlers and Ship Agents, Callao, Peru" oval handstamp, Panama transit (Mar. 6), "Steamship 10" in circle applied at New York, red crayon "6", waterstained and stamp floated off during wreck, still intact and highly exhibitable

A REMARKABLE AND UNDOUBTEDLY UNIQUE EXAMPLE OF A CIVIL WAR PATRIOTIC COVER USED FROM OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES AND SAVED FROM A MARITIME DISASTER.

Our search for information on the Stella was unsuccessful, but clearly this is an extremely rare salvaged-mail cover and undoubtedly unique as a Civil War Patriotic use.

Ex LeBow

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