U.S. 3¢ star-die, size 3, knife 2, tied indistinct 1861 cancel that is either independent state or CSA Use of U.S. rate on cover addressed to “Honr Howell Cobb, Montgomery, Ala”. Howell Cobb served as president of the Confederate Provisional Congress (1861-62) and thus this cover is a use while in that position in Montgomery before June 1, 1861. He was also a distinguished major general of the Confederate army. His personal history is well-known and illustrious. [AL]