12c Black, Matching Diagonal Halves Used as 6c (17a). Two buff covers addressed in the same hand to Norfolk Conn., likely 1853 uses, first use is bottom right half tied by "San Francisco Cal. 10 Jun." circular datestamp, second light strike at right, bisect with small tears at bottom, some edgewear, some blue ink probably from other markings on covers in a pile, second is top left diagonal half tied by "San Francisco Cal. 1 Sep." circular datestamp, with manuscript "Due" and "10" in circle handstamp, some edgewear

VERY FINE APPEARANCE. A FANTASTIC PAIR OF COVERS BEARING MATCHING HALVES OF THE SAME 12-CENT 1851 ISSUE STAMP, WHERE ONE WAS ACCEPTED AS POSTAGE AND THE OTHER APPARENTLY NOT. A PHENOMENAL PAIR OF ITEMS SUITED FOR EXHIBITION.

The transcontinental rate after July 1, 1851 was 6c, but if not prepaid by stamps then it was charged 10c due from the recipient (see Siegel Sale 1002, lot 3743 for an example used from San Francisco Oct. 1, 1853 which was also charged 10c due).

Each with 1971 P.F. certificate, the latter stating "the DUE 10 indicates that this was not accepted as postage"

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