Lot no. 1031

1880 (October 6), stampless cover, struck with black FRANCO in Latin characters, postmarked with Burgas c.d.s. in black, received at Varna on October 8, undeliverable and noted “Retour” in blue crayton, with second Varna c.d.s. (Oct 13) on reverse, some overall wear, but a rare returned cover following the withdrawl of Russian troops.

Note: Eastern Rumelia’s only shipping link to international shipping was at Burgas, where Russian and Austrian vessels connected the country to the Black Sea port of Varna.