Auction 333-341 Europe & Overseas - Day 5

Austrian P.O. 1867: 10 s. blue in a horizontal pair used on 1878 cover at double rate to Vienna neatly tied by "FILIPOPOLI" circular datestamps (Dec 11) in black (Tchilinghirian fig. 868). Remarkable Southbound routing due to border problems post the San Stefano Treaty, with reverse showing Constantinople transit cds (Dec 13) and Vienna arrival (Dec 18). Upper right with circular handstamp of the French Delegation for the European Commission on Eastern Roumelia in blue. Minor edge wear to envelope but a most unusual and rare cover.