Lot
1202 
(Restored Rates) 1848 (Dec. 29) Liverpool, England to Petersburg, Va., folded letter endorsed "p. America", red "Paid at Liverpool, DE 29 1848" postmark and matching "1/-" shilling prepaid packet rating h.s., carried by Cunard Line America from Liverpool Dec. 30 to Boston arriving Jan. 12, red "Boston Ms. 'Ship' Jan 12" cds and red crayon "12" cents due rating for 10¢ inland postage and 2¢ ship fee, Very Fine and rare example of first westbound restored rate sailing. Estimate $500 - 750.
Letter carried on first of four Cunard mail voyages to the U.S. during six week period when pre-retaliatory rates were resumed before U.S.-U.K. postal convention became effective. Two voyages went to Boston and two to New York. Covers during this period are referred to as "restored rate" covers.