Lot
929 
1848 (May 6) Bristol, England To New York, N.Y., datelined folded letter posted unpaid with "Bristol Py Post 5 MY 1848" backstamp and sent to London where red "Returned for Postage" fancy handstamp struck, reposted with Bristol (5.8) cds and red manuscript "1/-" packet postage paid, Liverpool (5.9) transits, carried by Cunard Line Hibernia from Liverpool May 13 to New York arriving May 27, New York large red "6" circled handstamp for ship fee; Very Fine, Letter was carried on seventh of only nine voyages by Cunard steamers to New York before retaliatory rate period. Estimate $300 - 400.
New York ship markings appear on Cunard covers for only six months in 1848 and six weeks in early 1849 before treaty rates became effective. This is an unusual use of the returned for postage marking on a transatlantic cover.
Realized: $1,050