Christmas Seals are linked to the history of tuberculosis in Canada and the origins of the Canadian Lung Association founded in Ottawa in 1900. The double-barred red cross of Lorraine, which is synonymous with lung associations worldwide became the official emblem of TB associations around the world three years later.
The idea for Christmas Seals came from a postman in Denmark where they debuted in Copenhagen in 1904.Seals came to Canada in 1908 where they were initially used to raise money to build and operate sanitariums.
Funds also supported the use of chest X-rays and tuberculin tests.
Today there are more than 100 different lung associations around the world that raise funds through Christmas Seals campaigns.
Christmas Seals have become a collector’s item among philatelists and the general public alike.
This is also the time of year that the Medicine Hat Coin and Stamp Club sends cheques to various local worthy causes from our Charity account. These funds are raised through the sales of coins and stamps that have been donated by Club members and the general public. So, if you have an old collection or accumulation that you are unsure what to do with, think about donating it to our Club. All proceeds go to good causes within our community.
On behalf of the Medicine Hat Coin and Stamp Club I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Collector’s Corner is contributed by the Medicine Hat Coin & stamp Club. For questions or comments about coin or stamp collection email medhatcsc@live.com
