stamp, tax
Catalog Number
2017.71.12Date of Origin
ca. 1942Materials
paperDimensions
1.5 in.Description
Dark purple and white stamp with the image of the liberty bell on the front. The words Federal Use Tax On Motor Vehicles, $5" appears on the front. This stamp expired on June 30, 1945. It was advised the car owners "Keep This Stamp Posted On Vehicle".The back of the stamp indicates that it was issued for a 1936 Pontiac.
History
These stamps were issued by the US Internal revenue from 1942 to 1946. The hope was that by doing so, the general public would be more likely to use public transportation, thereby rationing the short supply of gasoline. It also helped pay for the war effort.This particular stamp belonged to Russell Klies of 30 Graves Place, Holland, MI. He drove a 1936 Pontiac 4 door sedan.