 These were the British colonial issues and required that many printed materials in the colonies be produced on specially prepared stamped paper produced in London which carried an embossed revenue stamp.In August 1862, while the American Civil War was being waged, the United States (Union) government began taxing a variety of goods, services and legal dealings.To confirm that taxes were paid a 'revenue stamp' was purchased and appropriately affixed to the taxable item, which would in turn pay the tax duty involved.