Letter From University With Seal

Hello,

I wonder if it was normal to that time to use seals with letters?
What could be the reason for this and is this something special?

In any case I really like the seal, especially as it's still in good quality.

It's an unusual - and some might say late use - but if the communication was official such as to an honorary degree recipient as one example - a wax seal would seem appropriate.

The corner card appears to say Treasurer. Perhaps there was a bank check or financial instrument enclosed.

Or an invitation to join "Skull and Bones"?

I collect Yale-related material. What would you like for it?

I don't know if it's even worth sending it over the Atlantic Ocean? :)

Probably not - sorry, didn't notice where you live :-)

The seal says TREASURER as well. My guess is that it contained a financial instrument such as a check and the seal was a simple security measure to ensure it was not opened until it arrived in the addressee's hands. I do not think it would be especially uncommon if the purpose was to ensure it was not opened. I have seen such seals from different companies and organizations on registered mail as well, again to ensure against the letter or parcel from being opened.

When was the last time I saw a wax seal on an envelope?

I actually have a few sticks of sealing wax and a Mickey Mouse (!) seal that I got when I was a kid, back in the early 1970s. There's a store near me that still sells sealing wax and seals, as well as antique-style stationery and knickknacks. They even have a quill sharpening service!