exceptionally sharp strike on 3c Rose (65), "Waterbury Ct. Mar 27" datestamp alongside, cover addressed to Warren, Connecticut, very fine strike of this popular cancel, 10 covers recorded with this cancellation in the Crowe census, this being the second-earliest, 2023 Crowe certificate

The Waterbury “AJ” on tombstone fancy cancel was used only between March 26 and April 8, 1869. Postmaster John W. Hill created this marking to commemorate (perhaps celebrate?) the termination of Andrew Johnson’s presidency, which ended March 4, 1869. After a battle regarding the attempted firing of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, Johnson faced impeachment by Congress. Athough the House of Representatives approved the articles of impeachment, the Senate came one vote short of the necessary two-thirds majority to drive Johnson from office. Regardless, his presidency was seen as a failure by many, and his opposition of the 14th Amendment has marred his reputation to this day.

Provenance: Dr. Glen Jackson (R.A. Siegel Sale 369, 1970)

John R. Boker, Jr. (Private transaction)