Lot 41333 – 1654-1867, Exhibition collection of well over 80 i

1654-1867, Exhibition collection of well over 80 items, extensively written-up detailing the routes and rates of the Thurn and Taxis postal treaties. Highlights include early princely/ducal letters with elaborate calligraphic addresses to denote free carriage, several items from the 1600s inc. letter of 1861 from Louis VI, Landegrave of Hesse-Darmstadt with his seal and holographic signature, 1683 letter Naples to Livorno, etc, early origin handstamps inc. red Mons (1736) and purple Louvain (1769), magnificent large princely letters carried free under concession with royal seals, etc. Then a study of the ‘rayon’ zoned rate markings 1820s/40s, changing fees shown by postal receipts with the Thurn and Taxis decorative borders 1820s/40s inc. ‘drink money’ endorsed for tip to postman, thru posthorn cachet types 1850s/60s. Also attractive frankings of Northern and Southern Districts stamps inc. 15kr lilac (Scott #51) with 3kr rose (#53) on front of May 1863 to Spain, as well as inward mail from England and USA, the latter with 1860 cover showing oval ‘paid 30’ plus large black St. Louis and red New York circular datestamps. Other unusual items include 1849 illustrated form for personal travel by mailcoach, 1845 lottery ticket sold at post office counter, etc, etc. A painstakingly researched collection with plenty of rare material, please inspect carefully. (Est. € 2’000/3’000)