back of the book

Stamps are just the start! Our wonderful hobby has many sidelines to pursue. In this popular section of the magazine, we explore the intriguing items that are often listed at the back of the catalogue.

REVENUES Straits Settlements Postage & Revenue Fiscal or revenue stamps have a history that is much older than that of the postage stamp, which first went on sale at British post offices on 6 May 1840, writes Christer Brunström. Stamps for Horse Duty were issued by the British Stamp Office in 1779 and stamps for a Hat Tax were printed in 1784. Those who used hair powder needed to pay a tax of 1 penny per package, and a stamp was issued for this purpose in 1786, as were stamps for a duty on perfumes in that same year. Some of these early taxes were introduced to pay for the costly wars in America. Most countries have issued specific stamps for fiscal purposes. In fact, some nations have released hundreds if not thousands…

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Stamp Collector (Digital) - 1 Issue, August 2024

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