Philippines (1931) Cover / Manila to Hanoi (Indochine)

PHILATELIC & POSTAL HISTORY DESCRIPTION

1931 (Dec 22) Manila (Philippines) to Hanoi (French Indochina) via Hong Kong

An exceptional and highly interesting inter-colonial postal history cover from the U.S. Administration of the Philippines to Tonkin (French Indochina) during the 1931 Christmas season.

Franking Details:

• 2c Green (Jose Rizal): 2 stamps (either pair or singles).
• 4c Carmine/Red (William McKinley): 3 stamps (comprising a pair and a single).
• Special Variety: The 4c stamps exhibit a highly desirable natural straight edge (imperforate on one side) from the sheet margin cutting process by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington.

Postal Route & Chronology:

1. DEC 22, 1931 (Manila Departure): Circular datestamp neatly tying the franking on front.
2. DEC 26, 1931 (Hong Kong Transit): Clear circular datestamp applied on transit (typically on reverse).
3. DEC 31, 1931 (Hanoi Arrival): French colonial “HANOI / TONKIN” circular datestamp on reverse. A remarkably fast 9-day festive season transit.]