What is an Italian Marca da Bollo?
An Overview of Italy's Revenue Stamp
Definition and Purpose
The Italian marca da bollo, commonly known as a revenue stamp, is a government-issued stamp used to collect taxes on specific documents and transactions. As a physical security feature, it provides evidence of tax payment and helps prevent forgery and tax evasion.
Historical Origins
The marca da bollo has a long history in Italy, dating back to the 15th century. Its use became widespread in the 19th century as a way to raise revenue for the newly unified Italian state. Today, it remains an important part of Italy's tax system.
Types and Uses
There are various types of marche da bollo, each with specific uses and tax amounts. Some common types include:
- Fattura (Invoice) Stamp: Used on invoices and receipts to indicate the payment of value-added tax (VAT).
- Contratto (Contract) Stamp: Applied to contracts and other legal documents.
- Ricevuta (Receipt) Stamp: Used on receipts issued for various transactions.
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