Welt 1875/1948 - Historische Postgeschichte (1875–1948) Lot x10: Hindenburg-Zeppelin-Flugumschläge, II. Weltkrieg





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Weltweit stammendes Vintage-Postgeschichte-Lot AWA S 141–150 mit mehreren Zeppelin-/Kriegsbriefen aus 1875–1949, alle im gebrauchten Zustand.
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Vintage Postal History (1875–1948) Lot x10: Hindenburg Zeppelin Flight Covers, WWII Berlin, Hong Kong
Here is a detailed philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 141.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Origin: Hong Kong.
• Destination: Paris, France (addressed to Monsieur E. Girardey, 19 rue Duperré, Paris IXe).
• Sender: R.P. Lehmann, 144 Pokfulam Road, Hongkong (written on the reverse).
• Postal Markings:
o Multiple circular date stamps (CDS) reading HONG KONG dated 10 JA 49 (January 10, 1949).
o A blue PAR AVION (Air Mail) etiquette sticker, with a faint red/orange crayon frame border.
o A faint, boxed, standard instructional or flight-related "AIR MAIL / PAR AVION" stamp on the bottom left.
o Manuscript notation in pencil on the front ("6/-", "10,40") and reverse ("Reçu le 13/1/49 - d. l'avion du 10/1/49"), indicating it arrived in Paris on January 13, 1949, taking just 3 days.
### Franking and Postal Rate
The cover is highly franked on both the front edges and corners, featuring a striking multi-stamp assembly:
1. 1948 Royal Silver Wedding Commemorative Issue: 10 copies of the 10¢ purple stamp (featuring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth). Eight are arranged along the top and left margins, and a vertical pair is fixed on the lower right edge.
2. Definitives: 1 copy of the King George VI 30¢ blue definitive stamp.
• Total Postal Face Value: $1.30 HKD (10 × 10¢ + 30¢).
• Rate Correctness: This represents a standard multi-weight or registered commercial airmail rate from Hong Kong to Europe during the post-WWII inflationary rate adjust periods of early 1949.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The envelope shows expected aging and light toning, particularly around the edges and margins of the stamps. The cancellations are mostly clear and crisp, providing undeniable proof of genuine commercial usage. There is a slight center vertical fold/crease that intersects the layout but doesn't heavily compromise the visual appeal of the stamps.
• Reverse: Clean, well-sealed backflaps with minor toning near the seams. The handwritten arrival tracking note adds nice historical context.
### Market Value Evaluation
While the high-value equivalent ($10 unit) of the 1948 Hong Kong Silver Wedding issue commands a massive premium, the 10¢ value is quite common on its own. However, finding a commercial airmail cover featuring a block/multiple of 10 of the lower-value commemorative used to fulfill a specific airmail rate is highly desirable to regional and omnibus specialists.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market valuation for Lot AWA S 142.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Flight/Event: 1932 Graf Zeppelin ($LZ\ 127$) 4th South American Flight (Return leg to Germany).
• Origin: Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
• Destination: Braunschweig (Brunswick), Germany.
• Sender: Dr. Soechting, rua do Principe 20, Joinville, Brasil.
• Addressee: Robert Soechting, Nordstrasse 17, Braunschweig, Allemanha.
### Postal Markings & Cachets
• Departure Handstamp: Circular Date Stamp (CDS) from Joinville dated -3 V 32 (May 3, 1932).
• Flight Cachet: The official violet oval flight cachet for the 1932 South American Flights (Südamerikafahrt) containing the Zeppelin silhouette.
• Arrival Handstamp: A crisp, black circular receiver mark on the reverse from BRAUNSCHWEIG dated 10.5.32 (May 10, 1932), documenting an efficient 7-day transit from Brazil to Germany.
### Franking & Rates
The cover is multi-franked with four contemporary Brazilian definitive and commemorative issues to meet the combined surface postage and Zeppelin airmail premium:
1. 2,000 Réis (Green): Featuring Bartolomeu de Gusmão.
2. 200 Réis (Pink): Featuring Santos Dumont.
3. 300 Réis (Blue): In the bottom-right corner.
4. Additional Definitive (Purple/Brown): To complete the required airmail rate.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The cancellations and flight cachets are clear and deeply struck. However, there is a prominent paper loss/tear on the right edge of the envelope. While it completely spares the design of the 300 Réis stamp, it significantly impacts the physical integrity of the cover.
• Reverse: Shows standard natural aging and original adhesive toning lines along the flaps. The paper loss on the edge carries through to the back flap.
### Market Value Evaluation
Zeppelin covers from smaller regional Brazilian towns like Joinville sent to specific destinations like Braunschweig are highly sought after by aerophilately collectors. Normally, a clean Condor/Zeppelin cover from this leg would easily fetch premium mid-range prices. However, the valuation must be adjusted downward due to the edge damage.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 143.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: Commercial Cash-on-Delivery (Nachnahme / Dobírka) Registered Cover.
• Origin / Sender: Sent by the prominent stamp dealer Deutsches Briefmarkengeschäft Bruno Schacherl, located at Belgrader Strasse 30, Prag XII (Prague, Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia).
• Destination: Addressed to a military officer (Uffz. Andr. Rebl, Horstkomp., Wien-Aspern, Waffenmeisterei), a non-commissioned armorer stationed at the Aspern military airfield near Vienna, Austria.
• COD Amount: RM 25.92 (Reichsmark), with the text written out in words (Fünfundzwanzig 92/100).
### Postal Markings & Labels
• Registration Label: A dual-language German/Czech registration slip from Iglau 2 / Jihlava 2, numbered 887. This indicates that while the envelope was prepared/printed by the Prague dealer, it was processed or mailed through the post office in Iglau.
• COD Label: A pink, triangular label indicating NACHNAHME / DOBÍRKA / REMBOURSEMENT affixed to the lower right.
• Cancellations:
o Front: Circular date stamps reading IGLAU / JIHLAVA dated 22.IV.44 (April 22, 1944).
o Reverse: A circular arrival/delivery mark from WIEN (Vienna), dated 25.IV.44, indicating transit and delivery took 3 days.
### Franking & Postal Rates
The cover is franked with definitive stamps issued under the German Occupation of Bohemia and Moravia featuring the portrait of Adolf Hitler:
1. Two 1.20 K (Koruna) Red Stamps: Definitives overprinted/inscribed "Böhmen und Mähren / Čechy a Morava".
2. One 5 K (Green) High-Value Stamp: Completing the heavier fee requirement.
• Total Postal Face Value: 7.40 K.
• Rate Breakdown: This cumulative franking covers the basic distance rate for a domestic letter within the Reich zone, the fixed registration premium (Einschreiben), and the specialized cash-on-delivery service charge (Nachnahme).
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The cover is beautifully preserved on coarse, wartime composition paper. The labels are completely intact and well-centered. The cancellations are crisp and fully legible, with no significant clipping of the stamps or text.
• Reverse: Clean, with original flap sealing intact. Minimal handling wear or corner bumping along the outer edges.
### Market Value Evaluation
Wartime commercial covers from stamp businesses are highly prized, particularly when they involve multi-service handling like combined Registration + Cash on Delivery (COD). This cover is enhanced by its destination to a specialized Luftwaffe airfield company (Horstkompanie / Waffenmeisterei) in Vienna-Aspern, adding strong military postal history (Feldpost-adjacent) crossover appeal.
This Lot AWA S 144 is an official philatelic exhibition cover from the 1938 Aarau National Stamp Exhibition (Nationale Briefmarken-Ausstellung Aarau), flown via a special domestic airmail flight from Aarau to Bellinzona.
Here is a detailed breakdown and market valuation for this piece:
Philatelic Elements & Analysis
• The Main Franking (Souvenir Sheet): On the right side, the cover features the 1938 Aarau Miniature Sheet (often cataloged as Zumstein Block 4 / Michel Block 4). It includes three stamps commemorating 25 years of Swiss Airmail (1913–1938), depicting Alpine landscapes and the symbolic winged Icarus airmail motif.
• The Auxiliary Franking: It includes a 20c Red B.I.T. (Bureau International du Travail / International Labour Office) Swiss official overprint stamp, added to meet the proper registration or airmail rate.
• Postal Markings & Cachets:
o Special Exhibition Postmarks: Three clean strikes of the circular date stamp (CDS) reading NATIONALE BRIEFMARKEN-AUSSTELLUNG AARAU 17.-25. SEPT. 1938, cleanly dated 23.9.1938.
o Flight Cachet: A distinct blue special cachet featuring an airplane motif confirming the exhibition flight.
o Registration Label: A matching red registration (R-Label) specifically printed for the event: Aarau Nationale Briefmarken-Ausstellung (No. 360).
o Arrival Backstamp: A crisp, black arrival datestamp on the front lower center: BELLINZONA 23.IX.38-13.
• The Reverse (Verso): Features the official multicolored Aarau Exhibition Vignette (cinderella stamp) showing a carrier pigeon over mountains, acting as an attractive promotional seal to close the flap.
• Condition: Excellent/Very Fine (VF). The cover shows minor, uniform age-toning typical of 1930s Swiss cream-toned paper stock, but the edges are sharp, the stamps are unblemished, and the strikes are crisp and well-centered.
Market Price & Evaluation
While the Aarau 1938 souvenir sheet on a regular First Day Cover or simple event cover is common, a fully registered, domestic special-flight cover carried on the Aarau-Bellinzona leg with an additional official B.I.T. stamp and a clean arrival strike carries a premium.
This is a comprehensive philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 145.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: 19th-Century Great Lakes Steamboat Cover.
• Origin / Route: Lake Superior / Lake Michigan route carried via the propeller steamer City of Fremont, which operated between Buffalo, Detroit, and Duluth.
• Destination: Addressed to Mrs. Henry Gillman, 80 Elizabeth St. West, Detroit, Michigan. Henry Gillman was a highly distinguished American scientist, antiquarian, and author of the period.
• Date:
o Steamboat Handstamp: July 24, 1875.
o Detroit Post Office Handstamp: July 26, 1875 (indicating delivery upon arrival at the port 2 days later).
### Postal Markings & Cancellation
• Steamboat Cachet: A distinct, crisp, blue oval postal handstamp on the left reading "STEAMER CITY OF FREMONT / JUL / 24 / 1875". This is a classic Inland Waterways/Great Lakes route marking used to process loose mail handed directly to the ship’s clerk or purser while in transit between ports.
• Post Office CDS: A black DETROIT MICH. circular datestamp dated JUL 26 7AM.
• Obliquity / Killer: A dark geometric/quartered cork cancel obliterates the center of the embossed postage stamp.
### Franking & Stationery
• Stationery Type: 3-cent green embossed stamped envelope (issued by the Plimpton Manufacturing Co., George Washington design).
• Rate Correctness: 3 cents met the domestic standard letter rate for a single-weight letter in 1875.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The envelope shows uniform light surface aging and mild dust toning. The critical markings—the highly desirable blue "Steamer City of Fremont" oval and the Detroit receiver—are incredibly clean, well-inked, and fully legible.
• Reverse: The reverse side exhibits a major condition defect along the right margin, where the envelope was roughly torn or cropped open by the recipient. This has resulted in a deep jagged paper loss across the vertical side seam and backflap.
### Market Value Evaluation
Great Lakes steamboat markings are a popular branch of US classic postal history (Inland Waterways). Complete, pristine examples of the City of Fremont marking regularly draw robust competitive interest from maritime philately specialists. However, the severe physical paper damage on the right edge heavily discounts its top-tier value potential.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market valuation for Lot AWA S 146.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: Post-WWII Allied Occupation Zone / Berlin Provisional Commercial Cover sent internationally.
• Origin / Sender: Sent by the watch and jewelry wholesale company Max Schlichting (Gegründet 1920 / Großhandlung für Uhren, Uhrmacherbedarf u. Schmuckwareen), located at Berlin W 35, Am Karlsbad 8.
• Destination: Addressed to Fräulein Gisela Schlichting, c/o Herrn Hans Krummenacher, Stettlen b. Bern, Schweiz (Switzerland).
• Date / Cancellations: Three clean, matching circular date stamps reading BERLIN W 35 / m dated -5.7.49.19-20 (July 5, 1949, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM).
### Franking & Overprints
The cover is highly franked across the top margin with a striking combination of Berlin provisional stamps:
• Stamps: Five copies of the 10 Pfennig green definitive (Worker motif / Berliner Bauten or Allied Control Council base issue).
• Overprint: Each stamp features the crisp, diagonal "BERLIN" red overprint (issued by the postal administration of the Western Sectors during the post-WWII monetary and political split of the city).
• Total Postal Face Value: 50 Pfennig.
• Rate Correctness: This correctly satisfies the 50 Pfennig international letter rate from Germany to Switzerland during the mid-1949 tariff period.
### Postal History & Censure Markings
• Left Edge Tape: The left edge is bound with a brown paper strip. On the lower left front, a purple circular handstamp fragment is visible over the tape, indicating it passed through an Allied military or exchange censorship checkpoint before leaving Germany for Switzerland.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The light blue-green commercial envelope is structurally sound and presents excellent visual appeal. The five overprinted stamps are fully intact with no clipped perforations. The three Berlin W 35 cancellations are very bold and strike the overprints optimally.
• Reverse: The reverse side shows standard minor edge wear and light creasing along the top flap seam from opening, but no major tears or paper loss.
### Market Value Evaluation
International commercial covers from the 1948–1949 Berlin overprint period are actively collected, particularly when they feature multiple frankings rather than single high-values to complete the foreign rate. The commercial watchmaker company corner card combined with the clear censorship indication adds excellent contextual depth.
This Lot AWA S 147 is a very interesting commercial insured and registered airmail cover (Wertbrief / Valeur Déclarée) sent from Amsterdam to Germany in August 1931.
Below is an analysis of its components and an evaluation of its market value.
Technical Specifications & Postal History Analysis
1. Philatelic Elements
• Stamp: Netherlands 1928 Airmail issue, 75 Cent green featuring a pilot looking through an airplane cockpit grid (designed by Chris Lebeau; NVPH #LP12).
• Cancellation: Tied by a clean Amsterdam machine or hand cancel dated 27 August 1931.
2. Postal Markings & Handling
• Registration: Explicitly marked with a purple "EINSCHREIBEN" (Registered) handstamp and a classic Amsterdam (Asd) No. 467 registration label.
• Insurance/Declared Value:
o Purple bilingual handstamp: "WERT Fl. 500.- / vijfhonderdgulden" (Value: 500 Guilders—a substantial sum of money in 1931).
o A pink "VALEUR DÉCLARÉE" label, standard for international high-value insured mail.
• Special Delivery Note: Cleanly typed at the bottom: "Zur Verfügung des Herrn. J. Haimann. aus Köln." (At the disposal of Mr. J. Haimann from Cologne), indicating that the recipient was staying at or picking it up from the luxury Hotel Quellenhof in Wildbad, Black Forest.
• Sender: Commercial imprint from N.V. Import Maatschappij A. Bernheim on Keizersgracht, Amsterdam.
3. Reverse (Verso) & Preservation
• Security Seals: Five intact, deep-red wax seals bearing the initials "AB" (matching the sender, A. Bernheim). These seals were legally required to prevent tampering with international insured mail.
• Transit/Arrival Mark: A crisp circular date stamp (CDS) from WILDBAD (SCHWARZWALD) on 29 August 1931, confirming a swift 2-day delivery transit from Amsterdam.
Condition Assessment
• Front: Excellent overall eye appeal. The paper shows minor edge wrinkling and slight corner loss on the top-left corner (common for heavy, secure envelopes of this type), but no damage affecting the stamp or critical markings.
• Back: Exceptional state of preservation for the reverse. Getting all five wax seals entirely or mostly intact is highly desirable, as they were frequently cracked or smashed during handling or opening.
Market Value Evaluation
Insured mail (Wertbriefe) from this period with high denominations or specific airmail usages are collected both by Netherlands specialists and postal history collectors focusing on German incoming mail or specific luxury hotel destinations.
• Scarcity Factor: Medium to High. While the 75c Lebeau airmail stamp itself is not rare, its genuine commercial use on an international insured/registered cover (Valeur Déclarée) with five intact wax seals is significantly less common than standard first-flight covers or philatelic favors.
This Lot AWA S 148 is a highly desirable, complete philatelic and historical lot consisting of a 1936 U.S. Zeppelin Cover carried on the First North American Flight of the LZ 129 Hindenburg, complete with its original handwritten German enclosure letter.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown, transcription/translation, and market valuation of the item.
1. Postal History & Cover Analysis (Front & Verso)
Front Elements
• The Flight: Carried on the famous First North American Return Flight of the LZ 129 Hindenburg (Flight contract/cachet designation: Sieger 407C / Michel 11 b).
• Cachet: Features the official purple American flight cachet on the left: "LAKEHURST TRANS-ATLANTIC FIRST HINDENBURG FLIGHT / Frankfurt-am-Main".
• Franking ($0.41 total):
o 6¢ orange Airmail embossed stationery envelope.
o 10¢ blue Special Delivery stamp (often used by collectors to make up the rate).
o 25¢ blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail stamp (Scott #C20).
• Postmarks: Tied by a crisp New York, N.Y. / May 11, 1936 machine cancellation.
Verso (Reverse)
• Arrival Cancellation: A clear circular date stamp from Frankfurt (Main) / 14.5.36 (May 14, 1936), confirming the rapid 3-day Zeppelin crossing over the Atlantic.
• Transit Cachet: Black German confirmation cachet: "Mit Luftschiff Hindenburg befördert" with a small illustration of the airship over a landscape.
• Sender Info: Return address written by B. Kettner, 252 Park Ave, Rutherford, N.J.
2. Letter Transcription & Translation
The enclosed letter provides fantastic historical context. It is written on personalized stationery from Bruno Kettner in Rutherford, N.J., but dated July 3, 1936—indicating it was written a couple of months after the May flight, likely tucked into this specific keepsake cover by the recipient, or written by a relative utilizing the same correspondence stream. It is written in a standard German cursive variant.
German Transcription
BRUNO KETTNER 252 PARK AVENUE RUTHERFORD, N. J., den 3. Juli 1936
Liebes Gretchen! Herzlichen Dank für den freudigen "Hindenburg" Brief vom 10. Juni. Dieser Luftriese, den ich auch noch nicht sehen konnte, ist schon wieder hier u. fliegt heute Abend wieder zurück nach Frankfurt. Ich nehme also hiermit wiederum die Gelegenheit Euch allen meine schönsten Grüße zu senden! Es wird Bruno interessieren zu hören, dass ich gestern Abend mit Freund Baldassarai Geigen Duette bei Rohmanns gespielt habe und daselbst wie üblich übernachtete. Ich musste da heute auch früh heraus, weil ich um 8 Uhr meine Cello Stunde in New York hatte. Wie geht es eigentlich Eurem Wilhelm in Hamburg, dem hätte ich eigentlich einen solchen Brief schicken sollen der Postkarten...
[Marginal note on left]: Marken sammeln, denn es ist doch wohl ein tüchtiger Sammler? Dein Onkel Bruno Kettner
English Translation
BRUNO KETTNER 252 PARK AVENUE RUTHERFORD, N. J., July 3, 1936
Dear Gretchen! Heartfelt thanks for the joyful "Hindenburg" letter from June 10th. This giant of the skies, which I haven't been able to see yet either, is already back here and flies back to Frankfurt tonight. I am therefore taking this opportunity again to send you all my best greetings! Bruno will be interested to hear that last night I played violin duets with friend Baldassarai at the Rohmanns' house and stayed overnight there as usual. I had to get up early today because I had my cello lesson in New York at 8 o'clock. How is your Wilhelm in Hamburg doing, actually? I really should have sent a letter like this to him, or postcards...
[Marginal note]: Collect the stamps, because he is surely a serious collector? Your Uncle Bruno Kettner
3. Condition Assessment
• Cover: Excellent condition. The colors on the airmail border are bright, the franking is undamaged, and the cancellations are perfectly legible. No significant toning or tears.
• Letter: Superb preservation, clean folds, and highly readable ink.
4. Market Price Evaluation
U.S. covers from the Hindenburg’s May 1936 first North American return flight are highly sought after, but because thousands were sent by contemporary collectors, they are not exceedingly rare on their own. However, having the original family letter enclosed significantly increases the value to social history and aerophilately collectors alike.
This Lot AWA S 149 features a fascinating, interconnected pair of aerophilatelic and historical items: a flown LZ 129 Hindenburg airship cover and its corresponding picture postcard, sent by a German-American named Bruno to his family back in Germany.
1. Philatelic & Historical Analysis
The Postal Cover (Envelope)
• Flight: This cover was carried on the 4th North American Return Flight of the Hindenburg (Flight LZ 129), which departed Lakehurst, New Jersey, on July 4, 1936, and arrived in Frankfurt, Germany, on July 6, 1936.
• Franking & Postmarks:
o It is built on a 6¢ orange Air Mail postal stationery envelope (which includes a printed 6¢ orange eagle indicium postmarked with a matching New York machine cancel).
o Additional stamps added to meet the total trans-Atlantic zeppelin mail rate include the 25¢ blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail (issued Nov 1935), a standard 6¢ orange Air Mail stamp, and the 3¢ purple Arkansas Centennial stamp (issued 1936).
o All items are cleanly canceled on July 3, 1936, at 2:30 PM at the New York, N.Y. Madison Square station, a day prior to the airship's departure.
• Recipient: Miss Margaret Kettner in Wolfenbüttel, Germany.
The Postcard
• Visual: The front features a dramatic, vintage black-and-white architectural view of Rockefeller Center, New York.
• Connection: Written on May 9, 1936, this card was enclosed inside the July envelope as a keepsake, making it an exceptional primary source document explaining the collector's intent behind the mailing itself.
2. Postcard Transcription & Translation
German Transcription
"New York den 9. Mai 1936.
Mein liebes Gretchen!
Diese Karte, sowie das wertvolle Convert mit Luftpost Briefmarken, bringt dir und allen deinen Lieben meine herzlichsten Grüße und auch noch nachträglich herzlichsten Dank für die liebe Weihnachtsgabe die ich bereits dem "Bruno Gustav Kettner" gegenüber dankend anerkannt. Hurrah für das Weltwunder "Hindenburg"! Convert und Marken gut aufheben!
Euer Bruno, der Amerikaner"
English Translation
"New York, May 9, 1936.
My dear Gretchen!
This card, as well as the valuable cover with airmail stamps, brings you and all your loved ones my warmest greetings and also belated, heartfelt thanks for the lovely Christmas gift, which I have already gratefully acknowledged to 'Bruno Gustav Kettner'. Hurrah for the wonder of the world 'Hindenburg'! Take good care of the cover and the stamps!
Your Bruno, the American"
3. Market Valuation
Having the original letter/postcard still accompanying the Hindenburg cover greatly enhances its historical value, changing it from a routine commercial/philatelic mailing into an intimate narrative piece.
This Lot AWA S 150 a classic 1936 Hindenburg (LZ 129) Transatlantic First Flight cover flown on the return leg from Lakehurst, New Jersey, back to Frankfurt, Germany.
Below is an expert philatelic analysis and market value assessment based on the provided visual details:
Postal History & Markings Analysis
1. Front (Recto)
• Origin / Postmark: Cancelled with a circular date stamp (CDS): "NEW YORK N.Y. STA. P / MAY 9 / 12 PM / 1936". This confirms it was processed in New York for routing to the Lakehurst airbase ahead of the May 11 departure.
• Franking: Totaling the mandatory 40-cent airship rate for this flight. It features:
o 25¢ Blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail stamp (Scott #C20).
o 15¢ Map & Planes Air Mail stamp (Scott #C19).
• Flight Cachet: Large, crisp violet official U.S. flight cachet: "LAKEHURST / TRANS-ATLANTIC / FIRST HINDENBURG FLIGHT / FRANKFURT AM MAIN" featuring a stylized globe, map, and the airship.
• Addressing: Typed to a prominent logistics and transport agency: Firma Max Gruenhut, Alsterdamm 9, Hamburg, Germany.
• Corner Card: Printed return address from the Phoenix Shipping Company, 21 State Street, New York, N.Y.
2. Back (Verso)
• Receiving Postmark: A clear circular arrival stamp from FRANKFURT (MAIN) 2 / 14.5.36 (May 14, 1936), verifying the completed transatlantic transit time.
• Confirmation Cachet: Black official German confirmation cachet: "MIT LUFTSCHIFF HINDENBURG BEFÖRDERT" (Carried by Airship Hindenburg) with a silhouette drawing of the LZ 129.
Condition Report
• Front: The stamps are firmly tied to the cover with legible cancels. The purple cachet strikes very cleanly with minimal smudging. Light handling creases typical of actual airmail transit.
• Back / Edges: There is notable paper loss and adhesive residue/remnants (likely from a previous hinge, mounting tape, or album removal) on the left side of the reverse flap. This artifact directly impacts the technical grade and value.
Market Valuation & Evaluation
In the standard catalogs (such as Sieger #409 or Michel #13), the U.S. dispatch for the first return flight is a highly collected, foundational piece of aerophilately, but it was also flown in relatively large quantities.
Look carefully at the images to form an opinion
Lot AWA Special 141-150
Vintage Postal History (1875–1948) Lot x10: Hindenburg Zeppelin Flight Covers, WWII Berlin, Hong Kong
Here is a detailed philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 141.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Origin: Hong Kong.
• Destination: Paris, France (addressed to Monsieur E. Girardey, 19 rue Duperré, Paris IXe).
• Sender: R.P. Lehmann, 144 Pokfulam Road, Hongkong (written on the reverse).
• Postal Markings:
o Multiple circular date stamps (CDS) reading HONG KONG dated 10 JA 49 (January 10, 1949).
o A blue PAR AVION (Air Mail) etiquette sticker, with a faint red/orange crayon frame border.
o A faint, boxed, standard instructional or flight-related "AIR MAIL / PAR AVION" stamp on the bottom left.
o Manuscript notation in pencil on the front ("6/-", "10,40") and reverse ("Reçu le 13/1/49 - d. l'avion du 10/1/49"), indicating it arrived in Paris on January 13, 1949, taking just 3 days.
### Franking and Postal Rate
The cover is highly franked on both the front edges and corners, featuring a striking multi-stamp assembly:
1. 1948 Royal Silver Wedding Commemorative Issue: 10 copies of the 10¢ purple stamp (featuring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth). Eight are arranged along the top and left margins, and a vertical pair is fixed on the lower right edge.
2. Definitives: 1 copy of the King George VI 30¢ blue definitive stamp.
• Total Postal Face Value: $1.30 HKD (10 × 10¢ + 30¢).
• Rate Correctness: This represents a standard multi-weight or registered commercial airmail rate from Hong Kong to Europe during the post-WWII inflationary rate adjust periods of early 1949.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The envelope shows expected aging and light toning, particularly around the edges and margins of the stamps. The cancellations are mostly clear and crisp, providing undeniable proof of genuine commercial usage. There is a slight center vertical fold/crease that intersects the layout but doesn't heavily compromise the visual appeal of the stamps.
• Reverse: Clean, well-sealed backflaps with minor toning near the seams. The handwritten arrival tracking note adds nice historical context.
### Market Value Evaluation
While the high-value equivalent ($10 unit) of the 1948 Hong Kong Silver Wedding issue commands a massive premium, the 10¢ value is quite common on its own. However, finding a commercial airmail cover featuring a block/multiple of 10 of the lower-value commemorative used to fulfill a specific airmail rate is highly desirable to regional and omnibus specialists.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market valuation for Lot AWA S 142.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Flight/Event: 1932 Graf Zeppelin ($LZ\ 127$) 4th South American Flight (Return leg to Germany).
• Origin: Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
• Destination: Braunschweig (Brunswick), Germany.
• Sender: Dr. Soechting, rua do Principe 20, Joinville, Brasil.
• Addressee: Robert Soechting, Nordstrasse 17, Braunschweig, Allemanha.
### Postal Markings & Cachets
• Departure Handstamp: Circular Date Stamp (CDS) from Joinville dated -3 V 32 (May 3, 1932).
• Flight Cachet: The official violet oval flight cachet for the 1932 South American Flights (Südamerikafahrt) containing the Zeppelin silhouette.
• Arrival Handstamp: A crisp, black circular receiver mark on the reverse from BRAUNSCHWEIG dated 10.5.32 (May 10, 1932), documenting an efficient 7-day transit from Brazil to Germany.
### Franking & Rates
The cover is multi-franked with four contemporary Brazilian definitive and commemorative issues to meet the combined surface postage and Zeppelin airmail premium:
1. 2,000 Réis (Green): Featuring Bartolomeu de Gusmão.
2. 200 Réis (Pink): Featuring Santos Dumont.
3. 300 Réis (Blue): In the bottom-right corner.
4. Additional Definitive (Purple/Brown): To complete the required airmail rate.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The cancellations and flight cachets are clear and deeply struck. However, there is a prominent paper loss/tear on the right edge of the envelope. While it completely spares the design of the 300 Réis stamp, it significantly impacts the physical integrity of the cover.
• Reverse: Shows standard natural aging and original adhesive toning lines along the flaps. The paper loss on the edge carries through to the back flap.
### Market Value Evaluation
Zeppelin covers from smaller regional Brazilian towns like Joinville sent to specific destinations like Braunschweig are highly sought after by aerophilately collectors. Normally, a clean Condor/Zeppelin cover from this leg would easily fetch premium mid-range prices. However, the valuation must be adjusted downward due to the edge damage.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 143.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: Commercial Cash-on-Delivery (Nachnahme / Dobírka) Registered Cover.
• Origin / Sender: Sent by the prominent stamp dealer Deutsches Briefmarkengeschäft Bruno Schacherl, located at Belgrader Strasse 30, Prag XII (Prague, Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia).
• Destination: Addressed to a military officer (Uffz. Andr. Rebl, Horstkomp., Wien-Aspern, Waffenmeisterei), a non-commissioned armorer stationed at the Aspern military airfield near Vienna, Austria.
• COD Amount: RM 25.92 (Reichsmark), with the text written out in words (Fünfundzwanzig 92/100).
### Postal Markings & Labels
• Registration Label: A dual-language German/Czech registration slip from Iglau 2 / Jihlava 2, numbered 887. This indicates that while the envelope was prepared/printed by the Prague dealer, it was processed or mailed through the post office in Iglau.
• COD Label: A pink, triangular label indicating NACHNAHME / DOBÍRKA / REMBOURSEMENT affixed to the lower right.
• Cancellations:
o Front: Circular date stamps reading IGLAU / JIHLAVA dated 22.IV.44 (April 22, 1944).
o Reverse: A circular arrival/delivery mark from WIEN (Vienna), dated 25.IV.44, indicating transit and delivery took 3 days.
### Franking & Postal Rates
The cover is franked with definitive stamps issued under the German Occupation of Bohemia and Moravia featuring the portrait of Adolf Hitler:
1. Two 1.20 K (Koruna) Red Stamps: Definitives overprinted/inscribed "Böhmen und Mähren / Čechy a Morava".
2. One 5 K (Green) High-Value Stamp: Completing the heavier fee requirement.
• Total Postal Face Value: 7.40 K.
• Rate Breakdown: This cumulative franking covers the basic distance rate for a domestic letter within the Reich zone, the fixed registration premium (Einschreiben), and the specialized cash-on-delivery service charge (Nachnahme).
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The cover is beautifully preserved on coarse, wartime composition paper. The labels are completely intact and well-centered. The cancellations are crisp and fully legible, with no significant clipping of the stamps or text.
• Reverse: Clean, with original flap sealing intact. Minimal handling wear or corner bumping along the outer edges.
### Market Value Evaluation
Wartime commercial covers from stamp businesses are highly prized, particularly when they involve multi-service handling like combined Registration + Cash on Delivery (COD). This cover is enhanced by its destination to a specialized Luftwaffe airfield company (Horstkompanie / Waffenmeisterei) in Vienna-Aspern, adding strong military postal history (Feldpost-adjacent) crossover appeal.
This Lot AWA S 144 is an official philatelic exhibition cover from the 1938 Aarau National Stamp Exhibition (Nationale Briefmarken-Ausstellung Aarau), flown via a special domestic airmail flight from Aarau to Bellinzona.
Here is a detailed breakdown and market valuation for this piece:
Philatelic Elements & Analysis
• The Main Franking (Souvenir Sheet): On the right side, the cover features the 1938 Aarau Miniature Sheet (often cataloged as Zumstein Block 4 / Michel Block 4). It includes three stamps commemorating 25 years of Swiss Airmail (1913–1938), depicting Alpine landscapes and the symbolic winged Icarus airmail motif.
• The Auxiliary Franking: It includes a 20c Red B.I.T. (Bureau International du Travail / International Labour Office) Swiss official overprint stamp, added to meet the proper registration or airmail rate.
• Postal Markings & Cachets:
o Special Exhibition Postmarks: Three clean strikes of the circular date stamp (CDS) reading NATIONALE BRIEFMARKEN-AUSSTELLUNG AARAU 17.-25. SEPT. 1938, cleanly dated 23.9.1938.
o Flight Cachet: A distinct blue special cachet featuring an airplane motif confirming the exhibition flight.
o Registration Label: A matching red registration (R-Label) specifically printed for the event: Aarau Nationale Briefmarken-Ausstellung (No. 360).
o Arrival Backstamp: A crisp, black arrival datestamp on the front lower center: BELLINZONA 23.IX.38-13.
• The Reverse (Verso): Features the official multicolored Aarau Exhibition Vignette (cinderella stamp) showing a carrier pigeon over mountains, acting as an attractive promotional seal to close the flap.
• Condition: Excellent/Very Fine (VF). The cover shows minor, uniform age-toning typical of 1930s Swiss cream-toned paper stock, but the edges are sharp, the stamps are unblemished, and the strikes are crisp and well-centered.
Market Price & Evaluation
While the Aarau 1938 souvenir sheet on a regular First Day Cover or simple event cover is common, a fully registered, domestic special-flight cover carried on the Aarau-Bellinzona leg with an additional official B.I.T. stamp and a clean arrival strike carries a premium.
This is a comprehensive philatelic analysis and market evaluation for Lot AWA S 145.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: 19th-Century Great Lakes Steamboat Cover.
• Origin / Route: Lake Superior / Lake Michigan route carried via the propeller steamer City of Fremont, which operated between Buffalo, Detroit, and Duluth.
• Destination: Addressed to Mrs. Henry Gillman, 80 Elizabeth St. West, Detroit, Michigan. Henry Gillman was a highly distinguished American scientist, antiquarian, and author of the period.
• Date:
o Steamboat Handstamp: July 24, 1875.
o Detroit Post Office Handstamp: July 26, 1875 (indicating delivery upon arrival at the port 2 days later).
### Postal Markings & Cancellation
• Steamboat Cachet: A distinct, crisp, blue oval postal handstamp on the left reading "STEAMER CITY OF FREMONT / JUL / 24 / 1875". This is a classic Inland Waterways/Great Lakes route marking used to process loose mail handed directly to the ship’s clerk or purser while in transit between ports.
• Post Office CDS: A black DETROIT MICH. circular datestamp dated JUL 26 7AM.
• Obliquity / Killer: A dark geometric/quartered cork cancel obliterates the center of the embossed postage stamp.
### Franking & Stationery
• Stationery Type: 3-cent green embossed stamped envelope (issued by the Plimpton Manufacturing Co., George Washington design).
• Rate Correctness: 3 cents met the domestic standard letter rate for a single-weight letter in 1875.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The envelope shows uniform light surface aging and mild dust toning. The critical markings—the highly desirable blue "Steamer City of Fremont" oval and the Detroit receiver—are incredibly clean, well-inked, and fully legible.
• Reverse: The reverse side exhibits a major condition defect along the right margin, where the envelope was roughly torn or cropped open by the recipient. This has resulted in a deep jagged paper loss across the vertical side seam and backflap.
### Market Value Evaluation
Great Lakes steamboat markings are a popular branch of US classic postal history (Inland Waterways). Complete, pristine examples of the City of Fremont marking regularly draw robust competitive interest from maritime philately specialists. However, the severe physical paper damage on the right edge heavily discounts its top-tier value potential.
This is a detailed philatelic analysis and market valuation for Lot AWA S 146.
## Postal Cover Overview
• Type: Post-WWII Allied Occupation Zone / Berlin Provisional Commercial Cover sent internationally.
• Origin / Sender: Sent by the watch and jewelry wholesale company Max Schlichting (Gegründet 1920 / Großhandlung für Uhren, Uhrmacherbedarf u. Schmuckwareen), located at Berlin W 35, Am Karlsbad 8.
• Destination: Addressed to Fräulein Gisela Schlichting, c/o Herrn Hans Krummenacher, Stettlen b. Bern, Schweiz (Switzerland).
• Date / Cancellations: Three clean, matching circular date stamps reading BERLIN W 35 / m dated -5.7.49.19-20 (July 5, 1949, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM).
### Franking & Overprints
The cover is highly franked across the top margin with a striking combination of Berlin provisional stamps:
• Stamps: Five copies of the 10 Pfennig green definitive (Worker motif / Berliner Bauten or Allied Control Council base issue).
• Overprint: Each stamp features the crisp, diagonal "BERLIN" red overprint (issued by the postal administration of the Western Sectors during the post-WWII monetary and political split of the city).
• Total Postal Face Value: 50 Pfennig.
• Rate Correctness: This correctly satisfies the 50 Pfennig international letter rate from Germany to Switzerland during the mid-1949 tariff period.
### Postal History & Censure Markings
• Left Edge Tape: The left edge is bound with a brown paper strip. On the lower left front, a purple circular handstamp fragment is visible over the tape, indicating it passed through an Allied military or exchange censorship checkpoint before leaving Germany for Switzerland.
### Condition Assessment
• Front: The light blue-green commercial envelope is structurally sound and presents excellent visual appeal. The five overprinted stamps are fully intact with no clipped perforations. The three Berlin W 35 cancellations are very bold and strike the overprints optimally.
• Reverse: The reverse side shows standard minor edge wear and light creasing along the top flap seam from opening, but no major tears or paper loss.
### Market Value Evaluation
International commercial covers from the 1948–1949 Berlin overprint period are actively collected, particularly when they feature multiple frankings rather than single high-values to complete the foreign rate. The commercial watchmaker company corner card combined with the clear censorship indication adds excellent contextual depth.
This Lot AWA S 147 is a very interesting commercial insured and registered airmail cover (Wertbrief / Valeur Déclarée) sent from Amsterdam to Germany in August 1931.
Below is an analysis of its components and an evaluation of its market value.
Technical Specifications & Postal History Analysis
1. Philatelic Elements
• Stamp: Netherlands 1928 Airmail issue, 75 Cent green featuring a pilot looking through an airplane cockpit grid (designed by Chris Lebeau; NVPH #LP12).
• Cancellation: Tied by a clean Amsterdam machine or hand cancel dated 27 August 1931.
2. Postal Markings & Handling
• Registration: Explicitly marked with a purple "EINSCHREIBEN" (Registered) handstamp and a classic Amsterdam (Asd) No. 467 registration label.
• Insurance/Declared Value:
o Purple bilingual handstamp: "WERT Fl. 500.- / vijfhonderdgulden" (Value: 500 Guilders—a substantial sum of money in 1931).
o A pink "VALEUR DÉCLARÉE" label, standard for international high-value insured mail.
• Special Delivery Note: Cleanly typed at the bottom: "Zur Verfügung des Herrn. J. Haimann. aus Köln." (At the disposal of Mr. J. Haimann from Cologne), indicating that the recipient was staying at or picking it up from the luxury Hotel Quellenhof in Wildbad, Black Forest.
• Sender: Commercial imprint from N.V. Import Maatschappij A. Bernheim on Keizersgracht, Amsterdam.
3. Reverse (Verso) & Preservation
• Security Seals: Five intact, deep-red wax seals bearing the initials "AB" (matching the sender, A. Bernheim). These seals were legally required to prevent tampering with international insured mail.
• Transit/Arrival Mark: A crisp circular date stamp (CDS) from WILDBAD (SCHWARZWALD) on 29 August 1931, confirming a swift 2-day delivery transit from Amsterdam.
Condition Assessment
• Front: Excellent overall eye appeal. The paper shows minor edge wrinkling and slight corner loss on the top-left corner (common for heavy, secure envelopes of this type), but no damage affecting the stamp or critical markings.
• Back: Exceptional state of preservation for the reverse. Getting all five wax seals entirely or mostly intact is highly desirable, as they were frequently cracked or smashed during handling or opening.
Market Value Evaluation
Insured mail (Wertbriefe) from this period with high denominations or specific airmail usages are collected both by Netherlands specialists and postal history collectors focusing on German incoming mail or specific luxury hotel destinations.
• Scarcity Factor: Medium to High. While the 75c Lebeau airmail stamp itself is not rare, its genuine commercial use on an international insured/registered cover (Valeur Déclarée) with five intact wax seals is significantly less common than standard first-flight covers or philatelic favors.
This Lot AWA S 148 is a highly desirable, complete philatelic and historical lot consisting of a 1936 U.S. Zeppelin Cover carried on the First North American Flight of the LZ 129 Hindenburg, complete with its original handwritten German enclosure letter.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown, transcription/translation, and market valuation of the item.
1. Postal History & Cover Analysis (Front & Verso)
Front Elements
• The Flight: Carried on the famous First North American Return Flight of the LZ 129 Hindenburg (Flight contract/cachet designation: Sieger 407C / Michel 11 b).
• Cachet: Features the official purple American flight cachet on the left: "LAKEHURST TRANS-ATLANTIC FIRST HINDENBURG FLIGHT / Frankfurt-am-Main".
• Franking ($0.41 total):
o 6¢ orange Airmail embossed stationery envelope.
o 10¢ blue Special Delivery stamp (often used by collectors to make up the rate).
o 25¢ blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail stamp (Scott #C20).
• Postmarks: Tied by a crisp New York, N.Y. / May 11, 1936 machine cancellation.
Verso (Reverse)
• Arrival Cancellation: A clear circular date stamp from Frankfurt (Main) / 14.5.36 (May 14, 1936), confirming the rapid 3-day Zeppelin crossing over the Atlantic.
• Transit Cachet: Black German confirmation cachet: "Mit Luftschiff Hindenburg befördert" with a small illustration of the airship over a landscape.
• Sender Info: Return address written by B. Kettner, 252 Park Ave, Rutherford, N.J.
2. Letter Transcription & Translation
The enclosed letter provides fantastic historical context. It is written on personalized stationery from Bruno Kettner in Rutherford, N.J., but dated July 3, 1936—indicating it was written a couple of months after the May flight, likely tucked into this specific keepsake cover by the recipient, or written by a relative utilizing the same correspondence stream. It is written in a standard German cursive variant.
German Transcription
BRUNO KETTNER 252 PARK AVENUE RUTHERFORD, N. J., den 3. Juli 1936
Liebes Gretchen! Herzlichen Dank für den freudigen "Hindenburg" Brief vom 10. Juni. Dieser Luftriese, den ich auch noch nicht sehen konnte, ist schon wieder hier u. fliegt heute Abend wieder zurück nach Frankfurt. Ich nehme also hiermit wiederum die Gelegenheit Euch allen meine schönsten Grüße zu senden! Es wird Bruno interessieren zu hören, dass ich gestern Abend mit Freund Baldassarai Geigen Duette bei Rohmanns gespielt habe und daselbst wie üblich übernachtete. Ich musste da heute auch früh heraus, weil ich um 8 Uhr meine Cello Stunde in New York hatte. Wie geht es eigentlich Eurem Wilhelm in Hamburg, dem hätte ich eigentlich einen solchen Brief schicken sollen der Postkarten...
[Marginal note on left]: Marken sammeln, denn es ist doch wohl ein tüchtiger Sammler? Dein Onkel Bruno Kettner
English Translation
BRUNO KETTNER 252 PARK AVENUE RUTHERFORD, N. J., July 3, 1936
Dear Gretchen! Heartfelt thanks for the joyful "Hindenburg" letter from June 10th. This giant of the skies, which I haven't been able to see yet either, is already back here and flies back to Frankfurt tonight. I am therefore taking this opportunity again to send you all my best greetings! Bruno will be interested to hear that last night I played violin duets with friend Baldassarai at the Rohmanns' house and stayed overnight there as usual. I had to get up early today because I had my cello lesson in New York at 8 o'clock. How is your Wilhelm in Hamburg doing, actually? I really should have sent a letter like this to him, or postcards...
[Marginal note]: Collect the stamps, because he is surely a serious collector? Your Uncle Bruno Kettner
3. Condition Assessment
• Cover: Excellent condition. The colors on the airmail border are bright, the franking is undamaged, and the cancellations are perfectly legible. No significant toning or tears.
• Letter: Superb preservation, clean folds, and highly readable ink.
4. Market Price Evaluation
U.S. covers from the Hindenburg’s May 1936 first North American return flight are highly sought after, but because thousands were sent by contemporary collectors, they are not exceedingly rare on their own. However, having the original family letter enclosed significantly increases the value to social history and aerophilately collectors alike.
This Lot AWA S 149 features a fascinating, interconnected pair of aerophilatelic and historical items: a flown LZ 129 Hindenburg airship cover and its corresponding picture postcard, sent by a German-American named Bruno to his family back in Germany.
1. Philatelic & Historical Analysis
The Postal Cover (Envelope)
• Flight: This cover was carried on the 4th North American Return Flight of the Hindenburg (Flight LZ 129), which departed Lakehurst, New Jersey, on July 4, 1936, and arrived in Frankfurt, Germany, on July 6, 1936.
• Franking & Postmarks:
o It is built on a 6¢ orange Air Mail postal stationery envelope (which includes a printed 6¢ orange eagle indicium postmarked with a matching New York machine cancel).
o Additional stamps added to meet the total trans-Atlantic zeppelin mail rate include the 25¢ blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail (issued Nov 1935), a standard 6¢ orange Air Mail stamp, and the 3¢ purple Arkansas Centennial stamp (issued 1936).
o All items are cleanly canceled on July 3, 1936, at 2:30 PM at the New York, N.Y. Madison Square station, a day prior to the airship's departure.
• Recipient: Miss Margaret Kettner in Wolfenbüttel, Germany.
The Postcard
• Visual: The front features a dramatic, vintage black-and-white architectural view of Rockefeller Center, New York.
• Connection: Written on May 9, 1936, this card was enclosed inside the July envelope as a keepsake, making it an exceptional primary source document explaining the collector's intent behind the mailing itself.
2. Postcard Transcription & Translation
German Transcription
"New York den 9. Mai 1936.
Mein liebes Gretchen!
Diese Karte, sowie das wertvolle Convert mit Luftpost Briefmarken, bringt dir und allen deinen Lieben meine herzlichsten Grüße und auch noch nachträglich herzlichsten Dank für die liebe Weihnachtsgabe die ich bereits dem "Bruno Gustav Kettner" gegenüber dankend anerkannt. Hurrah für das Weltwunder "Hindenburg"! Convert und Marken gut aufheben!
Euer Bruno, der Amerikaner"
English Translation
"New York, May 9, 1936.
My dear Gretchen!
This card, as well as the valuable cover with airmail stamps, brings you and all your loved ones my warmest greetings and also belated, heartfelt thanks for the lovely Christmas gift, which I have already gratefully acknowledged to 'Bruno Gustav Kettner'. Hurrah for the wonder of the world 'Hindenburg'! Take good care of the cover and the stamps!
Your Bruno, the American"
3. Market Valuation
Having the original letter/postcard still accompanying the Hindenburg cover greatly enhances its historical value, changing it from a routine commercial/philatelic mailing into an intimate narrative piece.
This Lot AWA S 150 a classic 1936 Hindenburg (LZ 129) Transatlantic First Flight cover flown on the return leg from Lakehurst, New Jersey, back to Frankfurt, Germany.
Below is an expert philatelic analysis and market value assessment based on the provided visual details:
Postal History & Markings Analysis
1. Front (Recto)
• Origin / Postmark: Cancelled with a circular date stamp (CDS): "NEW YORK N.Y. STA. P / MAY 9 / 12 PM / 1936". This confirms it was processed in New York for routing to the Lakehurst airbase ahead of the May 11 departure.
• Franking: Totaling the mandatory 40-cent airship rate for this flight. It features:
o 25¢ Blue Trans-Pacific Air Mail stamp (Scott #C20).
o 15¢ Map & Planes Air Mail stamp (Scott #C19).
• Flight Cachet: Large, crisp violet official U.S. flight cachet: "LAKEHURST / TRANS-ATLANTIC / FIRST HINDENBURG FLIGHT / FRANKFURT AM MAIN" featuring a stylized globe, map, and the airship.
• Addressing: Typed to a prominent logistics and transport agency: Firma Max Gruenhut, Alsterdamm 9, Hamburg, Germany.
• Corner Card: Printed return address from the Phoenix Shipping Company, 21 State Street, New York, N.Y.
2. Back (Verso)
• Receiving Postmark: A clear circular arrival stamp from FRANKFURT (MAIN) 2 / 14.5.36 (May 14, 1936), verifying the completed transatlantic transit time.
• Confirmation Cachet: Black official German confirmation cachet: "MIT LUFTSCHIFF HINDENBURG BEFÖRDERT" (Carried by Airship Hindenburg) with a silhouette drawing of the LZ 129.
Condition Report
• Front: The stamps are firmly tied to the cover with legible cancels. The purple cachet strikes very cleanly with minimal smudging. Light handling creases typical of actual airmail transit.
• Back / Edges: There is notable paper loss and adhesive residue/remnants (likely from a previous hinge, mounting tape, or album removal) on the left side of the reverse flap. This artifact directly impacts the technical grade and value.
Market Valuation & Evaluation
In the standard catalogs (such as Sieger #409 or Michel #13), the U.S. dispatch for the first return flight is a highly collected, foundational piece of aerophilately, but it was also flown in relatively large quantities.
Look carefully at the images to form an opinion
Lot AWA Special 141-150

