International Mail (10)
An early example of mail prepaid through the use of a
postage stamp. This folded letter, dated May 12, 1855,
is prepaid by an example of the new half real plata postage
stamp depicting Queen Isabela, which first appeared for
sale in Havana on April 24, 1855, less than one month
previously.
By Royal Decree dated December 18, 1854, Queen Isabela
ordered that postage rates within the West Indian colonies
or to Spain be established as 1/2 real plata (silver real)
for a single letter weighing not more than 1/2 ounce,
1 real plata for a double letter, weighing not more than
one ounce, and so on in like progression.
Probably carried by a Spanish or Cuban vessel, this letter
arrived at Santander, Spain, on June 6, 1855. There is
no postage due marking on this letter as it was recognized
as fully prepaid.
Tome I, p.18: Havana to Santander,
Spain. 12 May, 1855. |
