Postage Stamp Vending Machine, 1945-1955
Add to SetSummary
Around the turn of the 20th century, when the theory that microscopic germs transmitted infectious diseases began to take hold in the public's mind, Americans became concerned about licking stamps--and any accompanying germs. Buying stamps in sealed "sanitary folders"--like the ones dispensed from this machine--alleviated this fear. Only later would further research assure Americans that licking stamps posed only limited risk.
Around the turn of the 20th century, when the theory that microscopic germs transmitted infectious diseases began to take hold in the public's mind, Americans became concerned about licking stamps--and any accompanying germs. Buying stamps in sealed "sanitary folders"--like the ones dispensed from this machine--alleviated this fear. Only later would further research assure Americans that licking stamps posed only limited risk.
Artifact
Vending machine
Date Made
1945-1955
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
2022.23.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Rosalyn Bentz.
Material
Metal
Color
White (Color)
Red
Blue
Black (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 16 in
Width: 7.625 in
Length: 6 in
Inscriptions
on front: WAIT FOR COIN TO DROP / 10c 5c 10c / POSTAGE / STAMPS / In SANITARY / FOLDERS / PROTECT / YOUR / HEALTH! / Save a Trip / to the Postoffice / SHIPMAN MFG. CO. / LOS ANGELES / COIN RETURNS / WHEN EMPTY / PAT'S. APPL. FOR
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