Pensacola, British Florida to England, 1768. Folded letter datelined "Pensacola 6th August 1768" and addressed to Pontefract, Yorkshire, England, originally rated "1/-" shilling which was crossed out, intended to be carried on the Falmouth packet Anna Teresa which was wrecked off the coast of Florida on July 28, so carried privately to England where rated "In all 5" (4p inland postage plus 1p ship's fee), bold "LONDON/SHIP LRE" handstamp and "15/NO" Bishop's mark, with typed transcript of contents sent by John Misdale (deputy distributor of stamps for stamp duty), some slight wear

VERY FINE. THIS IS THE EARLIEST RECORDED EXAMPLE OF MAIL FROM PENSACOLA, AND A VERY RARE EARLY TRANSATLANTIC USE.

According to American Stampless Cover Catalog, the earliest recorded piece of mail thru Pensacola was a letter from New Orleans to Philadelphia sent thru Pensacola. The book does not note the earliest transatlantic use. This cover was intended to be carried on the Falmouth packet Anna Teresa which was wrecked off the coast of Florida on July 28; the rescued crew and mail were first taken to the Bahamas, then the crew was brought to St. Augustine on Aug. 5 and the mail was brought to Charlestown on Aug. 9.

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