Lot 50137 – 1852–57 6d Reddish-Purple and 1/2d Rose Multiple – Windsor to Peebles via Hamilton / Cunard “Africa”

1852–57 6d Reddish-Purple and 1/2d Rose Multiple – Windsor to Peebles via Hamilton / Cunard “Africa”

6d reddish-purple on very thick soft wove paper with four 1/2d rose on medium hard wove paper, mixed margins with some minor faults, one stamp lifted for inspection and hinged back, all on an envelope (wax seal removed) from Windsor 5/6/1858, endorsed “via St. Lawrence”. The letter missed the St. Lawrence route and was sent via Hamilton, carried on Cunard “Africa” via New York and Liverpool (with PKT. LETTER 20/6 handstamp on reverse) to Peebles, Scotland, with arrival backstamp.

An exceptional cover with an elusive usage of the 6d reddish-purple on very thick soft wove paper.

Franking & Rate Details: The cover was stamped “MORE TO PAY” in Canada, and a 1/2d deep rose added to account for confusion between sterling and Canadian currency. The entire franking was tied by “50” numeral. The remaining deficiency of 2d was noted with a “2” handstamp.

Note: Illustrated in Arfken and Gems of Canadian Philately.

Provenance: Nickle, Wilkinson, Hackmey