Postage Stamp Vending Machine, 1940-1950

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.