Letter Express (Wells), 10c
Black on Pink Glazed (96L3). Ample margins to in at right, ms. cancel,
tied by file fold on June 28, 1844 folded letter from Detroit to Buffalo,
from the Shepard correspondenceFINE APPEARANCE. A VERY RARE COVER BEARING THE WELLS' LETTER EXPRESS 10-CENT STAMP DEPICTING A MARINE CHARGING ASHORE WITH SWORD AND FLAG.
The stamps issued by Wells' Letter Express are remarkable both for the purpose they served and for their distinctive designs. The oval 96L1-96L2 stamps depict the Goddess of Commerce surrounded by bales and barrels with a merchant vessel in the background -- symbols of private enterprise and the robust economic growth of America during the 1840's. The circular 96L3-96L4 stamps depict an American marine charging ashore with sword raised and Union Flag waving, and a naval vessel in the background. This design, chosen for stamps that would be used in the Great Lakes region, has been described as a commemoration of the Battle of Lake Champlain during the War of 1812, which may or may not be accurate. (Image)