LEXINGTON Va. JAN 21 (1862) bold neat CDS with a matching blue PAID 5 showing traces of the outer circle on cover to well-known nurseryman Franklin Davis, Esq. Staunton, Augusta Co(unty) Va., Franklin Davis was Virginia's most renowned tree nurseryman; bit of staining, particularly on verso. Ex John Vagnetti. $170.

The Postmaster at Lexington prepared envelopes with "PAID 5" and "PAID 10" in advance (thus provisionals), applying the dated postmark at the time of mailing, but they are considered provisionals only when unused, under a postally used general issue or mailed from another town. CCV $300 for stampless use (not provisional).