Expert: Andrew Titley - 11/6/2009

Question
I have found a stamp from 1922 with the American Lung Association cross symbol on it and the words "For Health" at the bottom.  Its blue and white, a lady holding a baby with a snow covered tree in the background.  Can you give me any info on this?  thanks.

Answer
Hey Melinda!

American Lung Association stamps are what is known as cinderella stamps.  The definition or terminology of these stamps is basically anything which looks like a stamp but was never used as postage.

The American Lung Association began issuing these sort of stamps during the early years of the 20th century.  They were typically done around the Christmas time to raise awareness for their cause.  It was a simple marketing idea - basically people placed them on envelopes with stamps to raise awareness for the cause.

As for a value, it is very hard to determine.  Generally speaking, since they were printed in mass quantities and were free, they aren't really worth very much.  With that said, as with everything, there are those who do collect these types of stamps.

Hope this helps!

All the best,
Andrew

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