1872, 1/2 sen tan brown, plate I (1), with 1/2 sen dark brown, plate II (3, including a pair), tied by two strikes of kiban te-26 (Iwayado, Rikuchu Province) to the reverse of an illustrated cover to Ishinomaki, Rikuzen Province.

Double-circle type KG Iwayado -.6.24 alongside, with transit KG Ichinoseki -.6.26 on the address side. Contents still enclosed. This cover dates from Meiji 8 or 9 (1875 or 1876).

A most attractive mixed-plate franking on cover, additionally enhanced by the rare Iwayado kiban cancellation and retained contents.

Rate: Letter nationwide = 2 sen, unified rate period from Meiji 6.4.1.

Reference: Illustrated in Dragon Covers, p. 118.