Lot 10417 – 1781, June 22. Ship’s register envelope belonging to the “Señor San Joséf y las

1781(June 22). Ship’s register envelope belonging to the “Señor San Joséf y las Animas” brigantine, following the maritime journey from Campeche to Havana, struck with “Campeche” straight-line and fancy “Franca./Canobas” hs, both on departure, with postal clerk’s signature as regulated. The manuscript “13” notation on reverse indicates the fee paid by the sender for the 6 1⁄2 ounces weight, with wax and paper seals illustrating the Spanish coat-of-arms and, therefore, as sealed correspondence, paying postal fees. Usual few edge imperfections, in no way detracting. The only ship’s register cover known having origin in Mexico during the colonial period, further enhanced by representing the earliest usage documented of these postmarks.

Provenance: Sitjà.