20th Century Postal Appraisal

Early 20th Century U.S. Post Office Registered Package Receipt

This item is an antique United States Post Office Department registered package receipt, likely dating to the early 20th century. The receipt is printed on light yellowed cardstock or heavy paper, exhibiting significant age and wear consistent with its estimated period. Physically, it appears to be a standard size for such postal forms of the era, possibly around 5x8 inches, although exact dimensions are not measurable from the image. The text 'REGISTERED PACKAGE RECEIPT' and 'Post Office Department.' are prominently displayed at the top, along with 'OFFICIAL BUSINESS.' and a stern warning 'Penalty of $300 for private use.' The form includes blank fields for 'RETURN TO:' and 'Postmaster at' where 'ALTAMONT, S. D.' (South Dakota) is handwritten in faded ink. There are also spaces for 'State of' and 'County,'. Multiple postal cancellation stamps are visible. A prominent circular cancellation from 'TRACY, MINN' (Minnesota) with a date of 'NOV 25 1502 R.P.O' indicates the processing location and date. Another less clear, rectangular or circular stamp has 'ALT' and '23 1900' within it, possibly indicating an earlier or different handling date. The reverse side (not fully visible but hinted at) contains instructions related to the return of undeliverable mail, including a directive for the originating Postmaster to compare the article's contents with the form. The overall condition shows considerable foxing, discoloration, and creasing, particularly around the edges and areas with postal markings. The corners appear somewhat softened or dog-eared. The paper has a visible linen or textured quality. The presence of multiple specific date stamps and location names makes this a highly identifiable piece of postal history, showcasing the bureaucratic processes of the time. The craftsmanship is typical for mass-produced government forms of the period, functional yet enduring.