Lot 60465 – 1843 (Aug 18) Entire sent registered to Tasmania bearing a fine strike of the framed “PAID AT / PORTLAND” in red

1843 (Aug 18) Entire to George Town, Van Diemens Land, bearing a fine strike of the framed “PAID AT / PORTLAND” in red, marked “Registered” and “3” in red ink overwritten by large manuscript “5” in black ink, with 3d for the single letter paid by the sender along with the registration fee of 6d, and the 5d for inward transmission in Tasmania paid by the recipient, scarce, ex Max Watson and Alan Holyoake RDP FRPSL.

Note: The 6d. for registration had to be paid in cash to the postmaster who was entitled to retain this fee and a perquisite of his office. The Portland Post Office was opened on 4th December 1841 and this may be the earliest recorded cover from this office. Probably carried on the Wave between Portland and Launceston.