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Lot# 609 - Auction 265-273

  • Lot# : 609 Ethiopia

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    Abyssinian Field Force 1867: Large part cover bearing Great Britain 1864/79 1 d. red pl. 92 tied by London duplex of despatch (Oct 7) and sent originally to Chatham (Oct 7), Sheerness (Oct 7 and 9), addressed to "HMS Star, China or elsewhere". Reverse with fine "HONG KONG" cds in black (Dec 15) and manuscript "Not China" on obverse, thence back via Bombay with circular "Steamer Bearing 3 annas" presumably applied there, and circular "FIELD FORCE POST OFFICE / ABYSSINIA" datestamp in black (Jan 31, 1868) on obverse with manuscript '5' (pence) deleted as not an Officer's letter but addressed to a sailor - top with readable strike of "RANK / NOT STATED" in black at upper left corner (possibly applied in Chatham?) and manuscript 'Unclaimed'. Despite being in two halves and piece missing, a remarkable item of Postal History.rnrnNote: This describer would be pleased to hear of other covers marked "RANK / NOT STATED", as this is the first time I have encountered an example.
    Starting bid : 350.00 CHF
    Hammer price : 1,500.00 CHF