Red Cross & Tuberculosis-Themed Postage Stamps

Postage stamps related to the Red Cross and Tuberculosis (TB) awareness have been issued worldwide to support humanitarian efforts, raise funds, and spread awareness about public health issues.

1. Red Cross Stamps

Many countries have issued Red Cross stamps to honor the organization’s humanitarian work, disaster relief efforts, and medical aid. These stamps often feature:

  • The Red Cross emblem (a red cross on a white background).
  • Famous nurses and doctors associated with the Red Cross.
  • Scenes of medical aid and disaster relief.
  • Anniversaries of the Red Cross, such as the centenary of its founding in 1863.
  • Portraits of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Red Cross.

Notable Red Cross Stamp Issues

  • Switzerland (1913) – The first Red Cross postage stamps were issued here.
  • United States – Various Red Cross-themed stamps, including World War I-era fundraising stamps.
  • France, Belgium, and Germany – Issued Red Cross charity stamps to support medical aid.

2. Tuberculosis (TB) Stamps & Christmas Seals

Many tuberculosis-related stamps were issued as “charity stamps”, where part of the purchase price was donated to TB prevention and treatment programs. These often feature:

  • The double-barred cross (Cross of Lorraine), a global symbol for the fight against tuberculosis.
  • Anti-tuberculosis campaigns, showing doctors, patients, and sanatoriums.
  • Christmas Seals – Special TB fundraising labels (not valid for postage) sold alongside stamps during the holiday season.

Notable TB Stamp Issues

  • Denmark (1904) – The first Christmas Seal was issued to raise funds for TB patients.
  • United States – Christmas Seals were widely sold in the early 20th century for TB awareness.
  • France, Spain, and Portugal – Issued TB-themed charity stamps featuring the Cross of Lorraine.
  • Soviet Union – Featured stamps promoting tuberculosis vaccination campaigns.