This cover from Brandon was originally rated 5c and probably to be sent UNPAID. However, the 5c was negated by an unusual grid obliterator and the letter was rerated as PAID 3c.
These rates were effective from July 1, 1851 through April 1, 1855 when prepayment of postage was made mandatory.
The most interesting part of the cover is the grid obliterator. Brandon was one of 36 Vermont post offices that received the 5c Franklin stamp of 1847. Until there were stamps there was no need for obliterators. This distinctive type was sent to various towns who had been supplied with stamps. Unfortunately, we can't be sure when this obliterator was first used since this is the first recorded example from Brandon.
In Paul Abajian's "Abby & Brady's Chatter" (July 2008), he describes and shows a similar cover from St. Albans. At the end of his article Abajian writes "Examine this gem closely, you will probably never see another one."
But, as we all know, in postal history, NEVER say NEVER.
Here's a larger scan of the obliterator:
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