AI Appraisal Estimate

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.

Upon examining the provided image of this early 20th Century U.S. Post Office Registered Package Receipt, I find it to be an authentic document consistent with government postal forms of the period. The yellowed cardstock, typical typography, and prominent 'Penalty of $300 for private use' warning all support its authenticity. The handwritten 'ALTAMONT, S. D.' and the detailed postal cancellations, particularly the 'TRACY, MINN NOV 25 1502 R.P.O' (likely 1902 given the 'ALT 23 1900' mark), are crucial for identification and dating. The mention of 'R.P.O' (Railway Post Office) adds a layer of historical interest regarding mail transport. Condition-wise, the receipt exhibits significant wear appropriate for its age. Foxing, discoloration, creasing, and softened corners are clearly visible, placing it in fair to good condition, which is typical for such ephemera. While these condition issues detract slightly from its aesthetic appeal, they do not diminish its historical integrity. From a market perspective, comparable early 20th-century U.S. postal receipts, especially those with clear R.P.O. markings or unusual destinations/origins, generally fetch between $20 and $100. The specific locations (Tracy, MN and Altamont, SD) and clear dates enhance its appeal to collectors of regional postal history or R.P.O. material. Demand for such items is moderate, primarily from specialized philately and postal history collectors. Its rarity is modest; while not unique, each document tells a specific geographical and temporal story. A key factor impacting value positively is the clear, legible postmarks and handwritten details, which provide specific historical data. The primary limitation in verification from images alone is the inability to physically inspect paper quality, ink types, and confirm the absence of restoration or repairs. For full authentication, an in-person examination would allow for tactile assessment of paper texture, UV light analysis for alterations, and microscopic examination of ink to confirm period-appropriateness.