George Washington. Free frank "President U.S." as President on folded cover to "Clement Biddle Esquire, Philadelphia", light strike of "New-York Feb. 7" straightline and barely struck "Free" handstamp, virtually intact wax seal, no date, repair around opening in backflap and sealed tear at top of address panel, light soiling

VERY FINE. A SCARCE AND ATRACTIVE EXAMPLE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON'S "PRESIDENT U.S." FREE FRANK.

After Washington resigned as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, his non-private mail continued to arrive in great volumes. On April 28, 1784, his franking privilege was extended. Technically, he did not receive the right to free frank mail as President until the Act of March 3, 1792 (effective June 1, 1792, and just over three years into his first term), but he began franking in his own particular way as soon as he took office. Washington is the only president to use the "President U.S." form of free frank without a signature.

Ex Historical Society of Pennsylvania

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