Beardless Lincoln three-quarter portrait in oval with image of his signature below portrait (Milgram AL-11), 3c 1857 issue (Scott 26) in the scarce claret shade, tied by one of two pen strokes, "North Bridgewater Ms. Dec. 15" (1860) circular datestamp at top center, addressed to New Britain CT.

The Civil War began on April 12, 1861. Because the Union did not want the Confederate States to use Union postage, the US Post Office Department, in four short months, designed, printed and distributed a brand-new set of stamps which began appearing in mid-August of 1861. Envelopes with this design were used both before and after the outbreak of the Civil War. Because this is a December use, it is most likely an 1860 use. 

"Milgram AL-11" refers to Dr. James W. Milgram's book "Abraham Lincoln Illustrated Envelopes and Letter Paper 1860-65". I believe Dr. Milgram still has some available. Let me know if you want one (regardless of whether or not you purchase this cover.)

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE

I am a true professional philatelist, doing this for a living since 1995. 

I have divided collections into auction lots and described auction lots for many major auction houses. 

In other words, you get what you pay for. 

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