Christmas Seals Value Guide

These mid-century Christmas Seals represent a nostalgic era of American philanthropy, specifically highlighting the popular Santa Claus and Scottie dog motifs of the 1950s and 60s. Originally championed by Emily Bissell to combat tuberculosis, these adhesive labels have become highly sought after by philatelists and holiday historians for their vibrant lithography.

What affects the value of Christmas Seals?

• Condition of the sheet, specifically looking for intact perforations and a lack of 'foxing' or brown age spots.
• The presence of the original gum (OG) on the reverse side, with never-hinged sheets commanding the highest prices.
• Completeness of the sheet, as full sheets featuring the decorative margins are valued significantly higher than individual seals.
• Rarity of the specific year's design, with the $25-$40 range typically applying to well-preserved specimens from the 1950-1964 period.

How to Identify Christmas Seals?

• Look for the distinct 'double-barred cross' logo, which is the international symbol for the crusade against tuberculosis.
• Verify the paper quality and gummed backing consistent with United States production between 1950 and 1964.
• Check for specific illustrator signatures or copyright dates often printed in the margins of the full sheets.
• Confirm the presence of the iconic Scottie dog or Santa Claus imagery characteristic of this specific era's design aesthetic.

History of Christmas Seals

Christmas Seals are not postage stamps but rather adhesive labels sold during the Christmas season to raise funds for charitable purposes. The first Christmas Seal was issued in Denmark in 1904 by a postal clerk named Einar Holbøll to raise money for children with tuberculosis. The idea quickly spread to the United States in 1907, championed by Emily Bissell, to support the fight against tuberculosis. While the disease has largely been eradicated in many countries, the tradition of Christmas Seals continues, with proceeds now often benefiting lung health and other public health initiatives.