This is an original sheet of paper (it's real deal--this is NOT a reproduction) called a "wrapper" that was folded by a letter-writter to resemble an envelope and to contain a now-gone letter after it was written to be taken to the post office by and mailed.  It is a "stampless folded wrapper."  You are purchasing only the postal portion, as pictured and described below.  I do not have the letter.

Once the letter was written, the entire item was sealed by the sender with a drop of sealing wax to seal the letter to provide security.  The seal would be broken upon receipt by the addressee.

ONE of the reasons this item is collectible is because of the fact that  the local postmaster applied postal markings considered appropriate for the letter's journey.  In addition to being collectable because of the content of the letter, or the writer, or the addressee, or clues about the letter that was once present, it is a collectable item of postal history because of the rates, markings and usage.

This particular item has a highly-desirable "manuscript" town marking.  "Manuscript Markings" are extremely collectible because of their scarce nature insomuch as the town postmaster had such a small volume of mail, a handstamp device was not practable. 

This is a full wrapper, not just a front or small portion.

Free Domestic Shipping.

Terms and Conditions:

FREE United States of America Postal Service FIRST CLASS MAIL SHIPPING to the United States.

Uninsured International, including Canada, shipments are $5.00 for the first item and $2 or $3 extra for each additional item.  If you purchase multiple items, I will adjust the shipping charges when I send an invoice.

I prefer PayPal.  If you wish to pay by any other means, please message me before the auction at and ask permission, which will not be unreasonably withheld.  When I send an invoice after you have purchased the item, please immediately remind me that you will be paying by another means.

Postal insurance and/or registered mail for loss and/or damage protection will be an extra charge and offered only if specifically requested.  If this concerns you, please message me in advance of your purchase.

All international shipments that request registered mail (insurance generally unavailable) will be charged a flat $14 for this service.

The United States Postal Service has an excellent record with my shipments.

I have been a member of the American Philatelic Society since 1978 and have been selling on eBay for years.

Virginia buyers must pay our Governor's 5.3% sales tax unless you email a PDF of your resale certificate within 24 hours of the end of the auction.

Buy with trust and confidence.

Thank you for taking the time to view my items and make sure to review the other items in my eBay retail store, especially in this category.