1c Blue, Ty. IV (9). Two horizontal strips of three, Positions 73-75R1L and 48-50R1L, large to huge margins incl. part of adjoining stamps at bottom of one strip, stamps creased prior to use, left strip small tear at bottom left not mentioned on accompanying certificate, tied by blue "Baltimore Md. Jun. 27" circular datestamps on incoming ship letter to Jacksonville Fla., ms. "Due 2" and also "Per Steamer Hugh Jenkins" under stamps (which were affixed in Baltimore), endorsed "Schr. Guthrie, U.S. Coast Survey" at bottom left which indicates this was carried by non-contract schooner to Florida

VERY FINE. A MOST UNUSUAL USAGE SHOWING CHARGES OF BOTH TWO CENTS AND THREE CENTS FOR THE DIFFERENT SHIP-LETTER FEES TO SEND IT TO ITS DESTINATION. THIS IS THE ONLY COVER KNOWN WITH SUCH A FRANKING.

The origin of the cover is unclear. It has been interpreted that the cover is of unknown origin and was charged 2c due for the ship captain's fee. The stamps were applied in Baltimore, where it was carried by non-contract steamer to Florida. The 3c ship fee for this non-contract sending was paid by one of the strips of the 1c stamp. The other strip paid the 3c domestic postage rate.

Ex Ishikawa. Described in Ashbrook's Special Service (No. 276) and with his notes on back. With 2002 P.F. certificate.

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