While they are widely collected by revenue stamp collectors, the federal Liquor strip-stamps are not revenue stamps. These items represent neither the payment of nor the exemption from the excise duty on liquor. The duty of liquor was payable upon removal of the bulk containers (barrels, casks, etc.) from excise bond.

Beginning in 1883, liquor manufacturers were given permission by the Revenue Department to bottle their products while still in excise bond. The liquor strip-stamps were used to seal the bottles since they remained in bond until removed for consumption and the duty paid. The rules for the use of the stamps varied over time, but it suffices to say here that they were mandatory for some products, optional for others and forbidden for still others. In the eyes of the manufacturers, the net purpose of the stamps was to vouch for the legitimacy and aging of their products.

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