Cover of the Month

This letter was postmarked TREN NJ, Apr 10 and was datelined Trenton 10th Apr 1816. It is in very fine condition with no stains, separations or pieces missing.

The war of 1812 created a financial burden on the finances of the United States, and in order to help finance the cost of the war, the Act of December 23, 1814 was passed and became effective February 1, 1815. This Act was known as the "War Act" and stated that fifty percent be added to the existing postal rates then in effect. For example, if the rate was 10 cents, the new rate would be 15 cents.

The "War Act" was in effect for a little over one year, and was repealed by the Act of February 1, 1816, which became efective March 31, 1816. This Act returned the postage rates back to the earlier rates, and was known as the "Restored Rate Act." For example, if the "War Act" rate was 15 cents, it would be returned to the 10 cent rate. The 'Restored Rate Act' was only in effect for 31 days due to the Act of April 9, 1816, which became effective May 1, 1816. This new Act reduced the number of postal zones and some postage rates.

Letters mailed during this 31 day time period , March 31, 1816 to May 1, 1816, are quite difficult to find and are considered rare.

This cover is not for sale.