Scarce Providence, RI Pre-Mailing Control Marking on the U.S. 3¢ 1851-57 stamp #11, tied on cover to Mr. Willard Bellows in Pawtucket, RI.

No contents, docketing on reverse, 1855-dated and text “4 valves admitting steam cut off and moved by rotary valve principle.” Most likely mailed from one of the primary known account holders - the Corliss Steam Engine Company.

Summary: Between mid-1855 and late-1857, control-marked 3¢ 1851 stamps were post-cancelled with the Prov., RI CDS, and accepted for postage at the Prov. P.O. There were a number of account holders (Briwn Univ., Corliss Steam Engine Co., Walling Publishers, Comstock). Sanctioned by PM W.B. Sayles.

Listed on pp. 173-174 in David Smith’s 2016 Silent Precancel Catalog. Recognized by the APES.

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See scans - good luck!!