The United States Postal Service (USPS) frequently unveils new stamp designs that honor important figures, commemorate significant dates, support charitable causes or just appeal to collectors. Did you know that the USPS once honored osteopathic medicine with a commemorative stamp?
This historic event took place on Oct. 9, 1972, marking the 75th anniversary of the AOA and recognizing osteopathic physicians’ contributions to American health care. The ceremonial stamp was unveiled during the AOA’s annual convention at the Americana Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida. It was a momentous occasion for the osteopathic medical community as it reinforced its impact and growing influence on modern health care.
Former Postmaster General E.T. Klassen served as the keynote speaker. He stressed the importance of osteopathic medicine in the broader landscape of American health care. The design of the 8-cent stamp was both modern and symbolic. Created by V. Jack Ruther of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, it depicted two overlapping human figures, one in brown and the other in gold. The figures were intentionally left without detailed features, highlighting the universal nature of osteopathic medicine. Along the right edge of the stamp, the words “Osteopathic Medicine” were displayed vertically, making the message clear and unmistakable.
The simplicity and elegance of the design highlighted the core principles of osteopathic medicine, emphasizing its human-centered approach to health care. The choice of colors, brown and gold, also seems symbolic, representing strength, warmth and the rich history of the profession.
To commemorate the occasion further, unique medallions were fashioned in bronze and silver. The design of these medallions reflected the philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine. To enhance the stamp’s historical value, a first day-of-issue envelope was created. This envelope bore the medallion’s emblem embossed on its surface, along with the first day-of-issue cancellation mark that lightly struck the stamp.
A stamp that made history
The commemorative stamp quickly gained attention and set sales records, surpassing any previously issued commemorative stamp in Miami’s history.
More than 4,000 individuals attended the AOA’s 1972 convention, including 2,641 DOs, 18 students and 1,510 guests. At the time, this was one of the largest conventions in the history of the AOA. The stamp’s release was a proud moment for those in the osteopathic community, acknowledging their dedication to a holistic, patient-centered approach to medicine.
Even the White House took notice. President Richard Nixon sent a message commending the osteopathic medical profession for its advancements and contributions. In his statement, Nixon wrote: “America’s osteopathic physicians are to be commended on boldly seeking to develop new medical services, on adapting the patterns of their educational system to the needs of our society and on striving to provide high-quality, comprehensive health care for every American.
In the spirit of your past accomplishments, may your deliberations at this 77th annual convention further your valuable contributions toward modernized, accessible and effective health service that all our citizens can afford.”
The president’s words reflected the growing importance of osteopathic medicine and its role in shaping a more accessible and effective health care system. This endorsement further solidified the significance of the commemorative stamp and its symbolic value.
First day covers: An enduring tribute
For stamp collectors and supporters of osteopathic medicine, first day covers (FDCs) played a crucial role in commemorating the 1972 osteopathic medicine stamp. FDCs are special envelopes bearing the stamp, postmarked on its official first day of issue, often featuring unique cachets such as illustrative designs or text that highlight the significance of the stamp.
The osteopathic medicine stamp was paired with a variety of FDC designs. Many of these covers featured artistic imagery reflecting osteopathic philosophy and practice. Collectors continue to cherish these first day covers as valuable historical artifacts that help preserve the legacy of the 1972 osteopathic medicine stamp.
An ongoing legacy
Last June, osteopathic medicine proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of transformative contributions to health care. The profession is celebrating the anniversary from June 2024 to June 2025.
Recent developments prove that osteopathic medicine continues to be a well-respected and influential sector of health care. In December 2024, President Joe Biden issued an official letter acknowledging osteopathic medicine’s significant impact and ongoing contributions to American health and well-being. In recent years, osteopathic physicians have served prominently at the highest levels of government, including the current and the past two Physicians to the President, all of whom are DOs.
As we reflect on our profession’s 150-year milestone, the 1972 issuance of the osteopathic medicine commemorative stamp stands as a powerful symbol of the profession’s enduring legacy. Just as the stamp honored the 75th anniversary of the AOA and celebrated DO contributions to health care, the recent recognition from the White House to the broader public continues that tradition of appreciation and respect.
