Colonial America
1755 Colonial Embossed Revenue Stamp Scott Cat. RM1
1755 Colonial America French & Indian War Period, Revenue Stamp, Scott RM1, Half Pence, Cut Impression, Stamped on a period Newspaper, Choice Very Fine.
An impressive Rectangular Cut from the bottom left margin of a printed Colonial Newspaper having a clear Red Stamped Tax Seal measuring slightly over 1" round, fully placed upon the newspaper's laid period paper measuring about 1.5" tall x over 3.5" long. Listed as RM1 in the Scott Stamp reference as the First Colonial Embossed Revenue Tax Stamp imposed in the America colonies. This is an original Colonial Tax Revenue Stamp, as found illustrated in the Scott "Specialized" Stamp Catalog. It is nicely printed in red, with an impressive "Eagle" vignette design at center left, with some partial printed letters of the newspaper text still present. This is listed as the First Colonial Revenue per the Act of January 8, 1755. It was in effect from May 1, 1755 through April 30, 1757 during the French and Indian War Era to offset war expenses and raise funds. Very rare, the 2024 Scott catalog lists a value on a full document at $2,500. Ex: EAHA Auction of August 23, 2008 Lot 2209. This first American use of a revenue stamp is extremely scarce, and this is only the second example we have offered.
The 1755 Colonial Embossed Revenue Stamp, listed as Scott Catalogue RM1, is a notable piece of American postal history. These stamps were introduced during the colonial era to signify payment of taxes or fees on various legal documents, such as deeds, licenses, and contracts.
The RM1 stamp is distinguished by its intricate design, featuring ornate patterns and official seals characteristic of the time period. Collectors value these stamps for their historical significance and rarity, as surviving examples from the colonial era are relatively scarce.