Definition of revenue stamps

stamps that are affixed to deeds (and, in some states, other documents affecting real estate) and that indicate the payment of the state's deed transfer (or other transfer) tax. federal revenue stamps have not been used since 1968, but many states have substituted their own.

Example: A state requires $1 of revenue stamps to be attached to deeds for each $1,000 of purchase price. There were $50 of stamps on Dan's deed, so appraisers assumed he paid $50,000 for the land, though he could have paid less.