Lot
4017 
1870 (Oct. 8) Paris to Belgium (Pli Confié), envelope to Bruxelles franked with 10c + 20c Empire Lauré tied by "Calais à Paris 8 Oct. 1870" double circle postmark, cover struck with scarce large boxed "P.D." in black, backstamped "Calais à Paris, 8 Oct. 70" transit, Belgian "France Midi, 9 Oct. 70" entry marking & with "Bruxelles, 9 Oct. 70" arrival, sealed cover tear at top, F.-V.F., carried by the Armand Barbès. Estimate $750 - 1,000.
This cover is a "pli confié", a letter entrusted to the pilot of the balloon, who posted it upon landing, rather than having it first pass through the Paris Post Office. Note the cancels on the adhesives - postmarks of the French traveling post office, outside the siege area.
Realized: $1,300