US #113 on Geo E. Downes Advertising Cover, Boston, MA

Own a Boston Pictorial Stamp Advertising Cover
Only 1 Available

This is a special chance for you to get an 1869 Pictorial stamp on a scarce advertising cover.  On their own, Pictorials and advertising covers are popular and sought-after by collectors, so this is truly an exciting and unique cover.  The left side of the cover has an advertisement for George E. Downes, manufacturer of Ground Rock Salt and importer and dealer of salt of all kinds, in Boston, Massachusetts. 

US #113 – Postal Firsts

The Pictorials hold a special place in postal history.  They marked a significant change in US stamp design.  Prior to the Pictorials, all US stamps featured the bust or head of an American president or statesman.  Even the first Pictorial stamp pictured a stateman (Franklin).  So, #113 was the first in the series to picture something else.  It was also the first to picture a horse and the first to picture a mode of transportation. 

The image of the horse and rider was based on a crayon and wash drawing by W.E. Hadden.   The position of the animal was ridiculed by horsemen of the time who complained the horse seemed to be leaping rather than galloping.  The main usage for the 2¢ Post Horse and Rider Pictorial was payment of the domestic postal rate for drop letters with carrier service and circulars.

Explore the Exciting Variety & Artistry of Advertising Covers

Advertising covers were made to catch the eye…  In the mid-19th century, companies began to take advantage of the empty space on envelopes to advertise.  Before long, the images and printing processes became more elaborate.  Printing methods including woodcut, engraving, and lithography were used to create these miniature works of art.  Known for their bold typography, elegant layouts, and detailed illustrations, businesses used advertising covers to grab attention and promote their products.

Only 1 Available – Make it Yours Now!

Advertising covers are extremely popular with collectors and can be highly sought after.  They are nostalgic pieces of a bygone era you won't find in your mailbox today. They’re great conversation pieces and make a wonderful addition to any collection focused on postal history, 19th-century printing, or Americana.  The cover shown is the cover you’ll receive.  Order it before someone else snatches it up.