Lot
948 
1851 (Jan. 18) Louisville, Ky. To London, England, buff cover with blue Louisville cds and free frank "H Clay" signature at top right that was crossed out and black "Paid" and manuscript "24" cent rating, New York red "19." credit rating handstamp, carried by Cunard Line Asia from New York Jan. 29th to Liverpool arriving Feb. 9th, red London Paid (2.10.1851) arrival cds; light fold at extreme left, Extremely Fine. Estimate $400 - 600.
A CHOICE HENRY CLAY ATTEMPTED FREE FRANK USE ON A TRANSATLANTIC COVER TO ENGLAND.
Henry Clay apparently applied his free frank on this transatlantic cover, not realized that his frank was valid only on domestic postage. The postmaster recognized this and required Clay to prepay the 24¢ packet fee for transatlantic service.
Henry Clay, Sr. (1777-1852) was an American lawyer, politician and skilled orator who represented Kentucky in both the United States Senate and House of Representatives. He served three different terms as Speaker of the House of Representatives and was also Secretary of State from 1825 to 1829. He lost his campaigns for president in 1824, 1832 and 1844.
Realized: $500