Lot
136 
Ionian Islands, 1860 Soldier's Letter - Corfu to Bradford, England, folded letter sheet from "Gn. J. Lamont 10 B. 68. Royal Artillery, Corfu", showing light strike of "Paid At Corfu" Crown Circle handstamp and red London entry cds (20.3), arrival backstamp, F.-V.F., a rare concessionary rate cover with the Crowned Circle, ex-G. Sattin. SG No. CC2.Estimate $400 - 600.
The seven Ionian Islands were handed over to Great Britain at the termination of the Napoleonic War by the 1815 Treaty of Paris. They were ceded to Greece in 1864. The 6th brigade, Royal Artillery garrisoned the Islands from 1859 to 1861. The 10th Battalion with Gunner J. Lamont reached Corfu, the seat of the British Government on June 1st, 1859.
This letter bearing the Crown Circle handstamp used to indicate pre-payment of the 1d for a Soldier's Letter is exceptional. To qualify for the privilege the letter was endorsed by Brevet-Major J.D. Shakepjear and was carried by a P&O Branch Mail Packet, under British contract, to Malta where it met a Packet to England. This service ceased in July of 1860.
Realized: $525
Lot
137 
Ireland, 1935, Free State overprint on King George V re-engraved "Seahorse", 10s indigo, o.g., never hinged, rich intense color and exceptional freshness, Very Fine and choice. Scott No. 95 $1,100.SG No. 101 £450 for hinged ($550).
Realized: $270