Help Identifying Old Japanese Stamp

Hi,
I have inherited a stamp collection. I would like to ask if anyone can help me to identify this japanese stamp. I would really appreciate any info since I have not been able to fimd any.
Thank you in advance
Best,
Al

Hello Al,

This is an inspection label for silk thread from Fukushima prefecture, Japan. The writing says 'Fukushima Prefectural Silk Thread Association Inspection Label'. I reckon they are from the late 19th century (e.g. 1880s) to the early 20th century, when silk (thread) and silk worm eggs were one of the most essential exported merchandise of Japan.

Silk and silk worm eggs for export have been strictly controlled by the government from the beginning, with specific revenue stamps (used as evidence of governmental control) issued by the government. Governmental control was discontinued in Meiji 10 (1878), and the authority of control was transferred to each prefecture. So you can find a myriad of these silk inspection labels from major producing prefectures, including Fukushima prefecture. There is no comprehensive catalogue of these labels, so it's quite challenging to identify and construct a comprehensive collection. However, I find them very attractive as a testament to Japan's industrial history.

Hope this gives some insight to your charming little stamp !

- Hironobu