The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

150 Results Found

U.S. Stampless ➝ U.S. 19th Century

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

Certificates: PF 610011

Red "BOSTON JUNE 8 PAID" postmark on 1852 printed prices current. The unstated rate of 2c was for an unsealed printed circular sent over 500 miles.

Provenance

Ex Mark Schwartz, Cipolla

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Folded letter addressed to William C. Bond, Esq., Cambridge, Mass., with circular "CAMBRIDGE AUG 7 MS." datestamp. The letter is a printed notice from B. A. Gould, Jr., Recording Secretary, announcing a Quarterly Meeting of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences to be held at the Academy in Cambridge on Wednesday evening, August 11. Dated Boston, 1852, August 6.

The addressee William C. Bond was a notable astronomer and director of Harvard College Observatory

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

Certificates: PF 606231

Folded letter locally addressed and struck with a bold black 35mm "CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. SEP 16" circular datestamp and matching 18mm "PAID/1/CENT" in circle handstamp, indicating the 1c drop letter rate. Addressed to Hon. Alvin Phelps, with pencil docketing dated 1853.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Cover sent from the Boston Post Office to the Postmaster at Southington, with letter enclosure dated September, 1858. The cover is addressed “Postmaster, Southington, Conn.” with a double-lined September 29 Boston circular datestamp. The cover was sent free because it was from a Post Office to another Postmaster.

The letter enclosure discuses the use of Post Office buttons for vests and caps.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Stampless cover addressed to Newark, Kendall County, Illinois, with blue circular TAUNTON MASS / 6 CTS marking dated March 27, 1854. The six-cent rate reflects a double-weight within-town rate.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Stampless embossed advertising cover from the Office of Gleason's Pictorial and Flag of Our Union, corner of Bromfield and Tremont Streets, Boston. Addressed to Louis Palmer, Ithaca, New York. Boston 23 FEB circular integral datestamp. Rated 5c for an unpaid letter (1850-1855).

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Very fine Strike of the Boston Rimless Arc with Straightline PAID SEP 26 handstamp. Printed Boston prices current dated September 24, 1853.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

U.S. Stampless ➝ Foreign Destination

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

Certificates: PF 621895

Printed bill of lading dated August 9, 1805, at Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, signed by ship's master William Marenner of the ship Jane. The reverse with an affidavit executed the same day before the Judicial Tribunal of Saint-Pierre, Guadeloupe, with intact red wax seal of office reading SCEAU JUDICIAIRE DE LA GUADELOUPE.
The bill of lading records shipment by John Pierre Servaton, merchant of Pointe-à-Pitre, of twenty-two hogsheads of clayed sugars marked "J.J. No. 1 to 22," consigned to John Jubel of New York at a freight rate of ten dollars per hogshead. The accompanying affidavit, executed before a colonial judge with Thomas Coffinger serving as sworn English-language interpreter, declares under oath that the cargo is the property of John Jubel, Citizen of the United States of America residing in New York, and that no subject or citizen of any belligerent power has any interest in the shipment.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $360

Estimate: $700 - $800

Nassau, Bahamas to Philadelphia, PA 1828 via St Thomas & New Haven, CT fancy pictorial SHIP & rated 95 ¾ cts due for 5 X 18 ¾ cts inland + 2cts ship letter fee

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $500

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200

Certificates: PF 612746

Folded letter datelined May 3, 1843, written aboard the whaling ship Eliza L. B. Jenney “off the Galápagos Islands,” endorsed “Per Ship Hector/May 3rd, 1843” and addressed to Bedford, Mass with manuscript "8". The cover with some foxing and a hole at top.
The letter describes the author's good health, his longing for home, and missing items such as raisins and “sider” (cider). He offers candid thoughts on shipboard life, expressing dislike for the captain, commenting on the second mate and crew, and noting the scarcity of whales. He details their voyage around Cape Horn and the hot weather experienced, sending regards to his relatives and expressing hope to return home after three or four more months.
A fascinating letter, and one of the earliest recorded examples originating from the Galápagos Islands.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $200

Estimate: $400 - $600

Some staining and some faults.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Certificates: PF 610009

May 21, 1855. Carried by U.S. Mail S.S. Co. from Havana to New York, and likely carried outside of the mails to Boston.

Rated 2c postage due for the U.S. printed matter rate for an unpaid circular sent to any part of the U.S. established by the Postal Act of August 30, 1852.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $50

Estimate: $100 - $200

Printed circular datelined St. Jago de Cuba, July 30, 1876, addressed to Boston, Massachusetts and charged DUE 2c, as no payment was made. An unusual due charge on incoming circular ship mail. Very Fine.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

U.S. Stampless ➝ Transatlantic

Opening: $260

Estimate: $500 - $1,000

Black "NEWPT RI SEP 5" circular datestamp on folded letter to Bath, MA with manuscript "Sh 19." Manuscript "Brig Rebecca Capt. Abbot Via Boston"

Letter datelined "London June 30th 1812" from Samuel Harding while on business in GB with his wife Lucy at their home in Bath Mass (now Maine). He says that he "arrived in Chatham...on the 15th May." He had written "6 or 7 letters since which however have been stopped by the Repeal of the Orders in Council as the vessels by whom I wrote returned to take cargo for the U.States."

The "Orders in Council" were three executive orders issued from
1807 to 1809 prohibiting trade with France. In an attempt at reconciliation with the US, GB repealed them on June 23, 1812, but it was too late. War had already been declared.

It appears that this letter was on the Brig Rebecca when it was intercepted by the privateer Commodore Barney of the "swift clipper-built schooner Rossie" on August 10 while the Rebecca was on its way to Boston.

Barney reportedly spent 45 days at sea and intercepted 14 ships, including the Rebecca. He destroyed 9 of the ships, but not the Rebecca. The Rebecca was seized for a breach of the non-importation law.

Ships captured by privateers were typically brought to a port by a prize crew from the privateer ship. However, Barney might have kept the mail and taken it to the Newport post office, perhaps pocketing the ship fee himself.

Barney was reported to have arrived in Newport on August 30. He got new supplies and left Newport on September 7. The circular datestamp is dated September 5, which puts it in the time period when Barney was at Newport.

The ship must have been US registered because it is typically described as "the Brig Rebecca, of Saco.", presumably the reason why he did not burn or sink the Rebecca.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $200

Estimate: $400 - $600

Folded letter written from a brother to his sister, aboard the His Britannic Majesty's Ship Lighting at Sea, with lamentations about the war interrupting their correspondence. Letter datelined "H.B.M. Ship Lightning at Sea 15th Sept. 1812" with no origination postmark, bootlegged into Philadelphia where it was struck with red "Phi 25 OC" (letter carrier) circular datestamp. The arrival at Philadelphia suggest the letter was sent near Madeira or Lisbon. The cover with some edge toning, but still a Very Fine pre-blockade cover.

Provenance

Ex Walske

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $360

Estimate: $700 - $800

Illustrated in Walske's North American Blockade Run Mail, 1775-1865 Exhibit

Stampless folded letter datelined at Liverpool on April 4, 1814, carried aboard the cartel ship Fair American, which sailed April 8 while transporting dispatches for the U.S. Secretary of State. The contents note that the “cartel now about to sail.” The letter arrived at New York on May 13, passing through the wartime blockade, and bears a manuscript “6” cents for in-port ship fee.

Period accounts of Fair American’s January 1814 sailing from New York record the presence of eleven unauthorized stowaways, later removed by a revenue cutter, with reports that letters and documents were destroyed during the incident (Niles’ Weekly Register, January 29, 1814, p. 364).

Provenance

Ex Walske, Arnell

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $260

Estimate: $500 - $600

New York, NY printed circular to Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucester, England 10 Nov 1830. Superb & scarce "Office of the American & Foreign Agency" fancy forwarding agent cachet used as an advertising handstamp. Recorded by Rowe 1830-1840. "Bristol Ship Letter" transit & rated 1N5.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $500

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200

Certificates: PF 618304

Red oval "Forwarded by Harnden's Package Express and Foreign Letter Office, 5 Court St., Boston" on September 21, 1839 folded letter to London. Received March 17, 1841, possibly lost or mislaid, rated 1/-. The Philatelic Foundation notes this item as possibly the earliest sent.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $360

Estimate: $700 - $800

Manuscript "per Acadia" and "H and Co."

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

New York Am Packet MAR 29 Black circular datestamp on front with manuscript "18", "50" and "71". Alexandria 1853 and orange GB circular datestamps on reverse. Addressed to Samuel Barnett, who was a prominent Ohio miller.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

Bold strike of New York AM Packet APR 6 Black circular datestamp on front. MAR 14 1854 circular datestamp and orange GB marking on reverse. Addressed to Samuel Barnett, who was a prominent Ohio miller.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

New York AM Packet 6 circular datestamp on front with Alexandria 24 1854 circular datestamp on reverse. Addressed to Samuel Barnett, who was a prominent Ohio miller.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $100

Estimate: $200 - $300

New York AM Packet APR 6 Black circular datestamp on front with Alexandria Blue circular datestamp MR24 1855 on reverse. Addressed to Samuel Barnett, who was a prominent Ohio miller.

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

U.S. Stampless ➝ Eastern Seaboard

Opening: $360

Estimate: $700 - $800

Black Nov 5 Boston, Ms circular datestamp with red manuscript "40" on 1803 folded letter to Philadelphia.

France and England were at war from 1793-1815. It was unclear to the French as to where official American sympathies would finally rest; as they suspected that our Post was opening certain important mails, they sometimes would write a secret message in lemon juice, which was invisible to the eye. When these letters were received, a small chunk would be removed and soaked to bring out a trace of a message; if none appeared, so be it. But if there was a message, the entire letter would be soaked.

This 1803 letter, addressed to Philadelphia, is an example of this practice.

Provenance

Ex George Kramer United States Domestic Mails Exhibit, 2014ru

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.

Opening: $360

Estimate: $700 - $800

1836 folded letter from Dundas, Canada to Albany, NY via Queenston. Red Dundas circular datestamp and blue Nov 2 Lewiston, NY circular datestamp. Red manuscript "6 1/2" rated for 4 1/2 pence Canadian postage to the border + 2 pence "Ferriage." Manuscript "18 3/4" US Postage due for 150-400 miles.

Mail between American and Canadian post offices, which were separated by the Niagara or St. Lawrence Rivers had to be ferried across because there were no existing bridges at this time. From January, 1829, until their termination in March 1837, the Canadian Deputy PMG levied a 2 pence "Ferriage" fee to be added to the appropriate Canadian postage due.

Provenance

Ex George Kramer United States Domestic Mails Exhibit, 2014

When will this lot be auctioned?

The Philatelic Icons Sale 2026 | June 26-28

Session: Sale 28: U.S. & Worldwide Stampless Postal History, and 18th Century American Historical Documents — Friday, June 26, 2026 | 3pm EST, 12pm PST

We are honored to present The Philatelic Icons Sale, the largest and most significant auction Americana Stamps has ever offered.

America's history lives in the letters that crossed goldfields and battle lines, in express covers that linked frontier towns to the outside world, and in the stamps that mark how a young country built its postal system from scratch. This sale brings together more than 1,500 lots that trace that story, including philatelic icons seldom offered to the public.

This auction is a natural fit for 2026, the 250th year of the United States, and for the Boston 2026 World Expo (May 23 to 30, Booth 141), the once-per-decade international exhibition where we are proud to open the sale. More than 750 lots are accompanied by Philatelic Foundation certifications, the largest concentration of certified material we have ever offered in a single sale. 

As always, the sale is designed to serve both the collector and the researcher. Whenever available, you can expect:

✔  High-resolution imagery of all aspects of the item 
✔  Links to reference articles and supporting research 
✔  Links to philatelic certifications 
✔  Census data and population insights 
✔  Provenance details to trace notable histories

Whether you are pursuing a long-sought rarity or simply enjoy the chance to study material of this caliber, we invite you to explore the Philatelic Icons Sale and join us in Boston for our largest in-person preview to date.