Lot
700 
[Treasury - Purveyor] Israel Whelan, The Purveyor of Public Supplies 1800-03. Free frank "free, Israel Whelen, Purveyor of Public Supplies" signature on fresh 1801 folded letter with ALS to Israel Whelen Jr. at the Purveyors Office in Philadelphia, brownish "Wash. City Feb 11" cds and matching "Free" rating handstamp, fresh and Extremely Fine, a choice example of the first the U.S. Post Office Department supplied standardized 26mm diameter postmark., ex-Richard Graham Collection. Estimate $150 - 200.
The Purveyor of Public Supplies is listed under the Treasury Department, although this shortlived (1797-1812) but important post was listed independently of any department in the early lists of government employees.
Realized: $125