Autumn Auction

1875 (Feb) Envelope from the German Consulate at Zanzibar sent to Berlin noting a deficiency charge of “60” (pfennigs) displayed in blue crayon along with the standard “T” in circle tax marking. The envelope was incorrectly taxed as consular mail was presumably free. The envelope was sent via Aden & the P. & O.’s “Australia” carrying the cover through the newly completed Suez Canal and then to Brindisi, and from there via rail to Leipzig and to the final destination. The consular German seal was applied in blue on the rear flap. This cover was sent just eight months prior to the opening of the Indian post office at Zanzibar.