Description:
1868 stamplessyellow cover from Prussia "Pr overland Mail via Marseille" with very fine 'ALTONA/ F /25 2/68/5-6N' cds in red & rated "10" (silver groschen) with 'P.D.' h/s also in red, French pattern 'PRUSSE/* 27/FEVR/68/FORBACH' cds in blue & 'LYON A MARSEILLES' TPO transit b/s, Hobart 'SHIP LETTER-INWARDS FREE' arrival b/s, minor defects but of striking appearance. A rare origin/destination item.
Until 1864, Altona was Danish territory. In that year, the Danish provinces of Schleswig & Holstein were ceded to Prussian administration, & three years later both duchies were absorbed into Prussia. This cover is therefore very early in the period of Altona being Prussian territory.
GST : ex GST
Symbol : C
Grade : b
Categories: Stamps & Postal History > GERMANY