Schermack Products Sanitary Postage Station Stamp Dispenser, Early 20th Century

Item Details

An early 20th century Schermack Products Sanitary Postage Station stamp vending machine. This machine features three compartments; each coin-operated with hand cranks. The rise in popularity of ‘sanitary’ stamps was due to the late 19th century acceptance of germ theory as a major cause of the spread of infectious diseases. Licking postage stamps was believed to lead to ‘postage stamp disease’ and other illnesses, which led to the rise of popularity of sanitary postage stamps and postage stamp vending machines.

Condition

- oxidation with rust, scratches, and discoloration; missing backing to one compartment; untested.

Dimensions

Item #

19DCC028-073

Additional Information

Schermack Stamp Vending Machine and Sanitary Stamps