19th Century Postal Appraisal

U.S. Post Office Department Registry Bill, Form No. 1550

This item is an antique or vintage U.S. Post Office Department Registry Bill, specifically Form No. 1550. It is a light brown or tan piece of paper, appearing to be made of a sturdy cardstock or heavy paper, and is presented in a vertical orientation, likely preserved within a plastic sleeve or protector. The form is printed with official U.S. Post Office Department details, including 'Form No. 1550' at the top left and 'Post Office Department' prominently displayed. A circular handstamp or cancelation mark with 'WINONA MINN' and a date/time (partially obscured, but appears to be 'OFFICIAL 6 PM') is visible on the upper right side. Below this, there's a printed penalty notice: 'Penalty of $300'. The form also features a stylized postal cancellation mark with wavy lines and the number '1' within a rectangular box, designed to be placed over a stamp or indicia. Handwritten entries are visible on the form, indicating 'RETURN TO Postmaster at Altamont' and 'State of S.DAk', likely referring to Altamont, South Dakota. Beneath these handwritten entries, there are printed instructions for 'The Dispatching Office' and 'The Receiving Postmaster' outlining procedures for handling registered mail, emphasizing the need to compare articles with the registry bill and to sign, postmark, and return the bill by first mail. The paper shows slight discoloration consistent with age, and a faint vertical crease or fold is discernible near the center. The edges appear relatively clean, suggesting it has been well-preserved. The overall condition suggests that while it is an aged document, it has avoided significant damage like tears or major stains.