1856 "Hidalgos"

1856 "Hidalgos" Jalapa. 1r. Yellow strip of three, 4r. Red and 8r. Lilac strip of six, on a spectacular registered front wrapper to Mexico dated 1860 (Jan. 18), with acknowledgement of receipt and signature on reverse. The 1r. strip and the first 8r. stamp were partially cut out when the front of the wrapper was cut at the post office, as it occasionally happens with the registered mail, yet the postal markings in the periphery remain most attractive. The strip of six 8r. paid 55r: 8r. flat rate for registration and first ¼ ounce, and 47r. for 54 ounces (special lottery rate of 25% of the regular rate). Postal rules in force until the 1880s required registered mail to have its front cut out and signed by the addressee as proof of receipt; the front was then returned to the office of origin, retained there for two years, and ultimately destroyed, which is why so few have survived. A unique and spectacular 55r. franking. Cert. MEPSI (2026). NF $6,600 for the 8r. as singles off-cover. NF does not price 8r. used beyond strips of three; the largest strip known contains eight stamps. Scott 3, 4, 5.

Estimate:£5,981.53

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