3c Pale Brownish Carmine, Ty. I, Chicago Perf 12-1/2 (11 var). Position 19L7, bright shade, scissors separated with full perf holes at left and showing part of adjoining stamp, few perfs evident at right, tied by lightly struck "Chicago Ill. May 22" (1856) circular datestamp on cover addressed in the hand of R. K. Swift to Washington D.C., backflap with indigo oval return card of Tremont House

VERY FINE. A LOVELY 3-CENT 1851 CHICAGO PERF ON A HOTEL CONER CARD, AND VERY DESIRABLE ADDRESSED BY R.K. SWIFT, THE PROMOTER OF THE HADLEY PERFORATING MACHINE.

This cover is discussed at length by Wilson Hulme in his article in Chronicle 175, p. 167. Based on handwriting comparisons to other known R. K. Swift covers, it is apparent that this handwriting is a match. Other covers from Chicago hotels with 3c Chicago Perf stamps were probably mailed by travelers who obtained the stamps from the hotel concierge. In this case, Swift used his own supply.

Ex Grunin and Piller. With 1975 P.F. certificate and accompanied by a note from Dr. Amonette confirming the shade

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