2006-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2006
A large and attractive master manifest for the outward bound whaling ship "Steptiana". As it leaves the harbor of New Bedford on a whaling voyage. Dated June 21 of 1864, the manifest bears a beautiful $3.00 "Manifest" revenue stamp, as tax on its present cargo of "Outfits for a whaling voyage" and "Fifteen boxes Tobacco" weighing "twenty four hundred thirty pounds". Since the Steptiana was going whaling in the Pacific Ocean, it is possible that a good bit of the tobacco would be used in trading with the natives for provisions. Also, since whaling voyages typically lasted two years or more, much of the tobacco would also be intended for the crew, as it is unlikely that the Steptiana would find tobacco of any quality in the Pacific, and for a crew to have to go without tobacco was considered a serious hardship in those days. In addition to the desirability of the manifest as a whaling piece, its value is also enhanced by the revenue stamp it bears. Very good.
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