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Auction: 25027 - Stamps and Covers of Great Britain
Lot: 2030

(x) Great Britain
Postal History
Restoration Suspension of Free Franking Privilege
1661 (2 April) entire letter from the "Com[missione]rs for discharging the Navy" with address panel reading "For John Munday Esq. Late High Sherriffe for the County of Derby", endorsed "For his Maj'te Speciall Service" by the sender, and "Pd" by the post office. Signed "Albermarle" (Duke of Albermarle), "Rob. Scawen" and "William Prynne". This letter unusually falls in the period between 1660 and 1661, after the Restoration, in which the franking privilege was suspended, hence the charge marking. A hugely important piece.

Notes: During the period between 1600 and 1661, there was a great deal of uncertainty as to when and how free franking was to be acknowledged or denied.

provenance:
Michael Jackson

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Estimate
£1,500 to £2,000

Starting price
£1000