Revenue stamps of Scotland facts for kids
Revenue stamps of Scotland are special stickers used in Scotland, a country that is part of the United Kingdom. These stamps were used from 1871 until the 1970s. They were a way to pay for certain government services, like fees for legal documents or property records.
While regular British revenue stamps were used all over the UK, Scotland also had its own unique stamps. These were specifically for the Law Courts and a place called Register House.
What Are Revenue Stamps?
Revenue stamps are a bit like postage stamps, but instead of paying for mail, they pay for taxes or fees. Governments use them to show that someone has paid for a service. This helps keep track of money and makes sure everyone pays their fair share.
Register House Stamps
Register House stamps were used to pay fees for registering important documents. These documents often related to property, like when someone bought or sold land. Registering deeds makes them official and legal.
- First Stamps: The first Register House stamps came out in 1871.
- How They Looked: They were often "embossed," meaning the design was raised, like a fancy seal. These stamps were from Great Britain but had "REGISTER HOUSE SCOTLAND" printed underneath the main design.
- Queen Victoria Designs: In 1873, new stamps were made. These showed a picture of Queen Victoria, who was the monarch at the time.
- Scottish Thistle: Some of these stamps also included the thistle, which is a famous symbol of Scotland.
- Later Monarchs: As new kings and queens ruled, new stamps were issued with their pictures:
- Edward VII in 1903
- George V in 1921
- George VI in 1947
- Elizabeth II in 1959
Law Courts Stamps
Law Courts stamps were used to pay fees related to legal cases and court services. These stamps were only used in Scotland, even though they didn't always say "Scotland" on them.
- First Stamps: The first Law Courts stamps were issued in 1873.
- Simple Design: They simply said "LAW COURTS."
- Queen Victoria: Like the Register House stamps, there were several sets showing Queen Victoria.
- Later Monarchs: Stamps were also made for later monarchs:
- Edward VII
- George V
- George VI
- Queen Elizabeth II: Stamps with Elizabeth II were issued in 1959. These used the old British money system (like shillings and pence).
- Decimal Currency: The very last set of Law Courts stamps came out in 1971. These used the new decimal currency (pounds and pence). This final set was special because it clearly said "SCOTLAND" on it.
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