1959 Scott #1138 – 4¢ Ephraim McDowell / Surgical Pioneer – Canceled

Commemorative U.S. postage stamp issued December 30, 1959, in Danville, Kentucky, honoring Dr. Ephraim McDowell (1771–1830), the pioneering surgeon who performed the first successful abdominal surgery in 1809. McDowell’s operation to remove an ovarian tumor from Jane Crawford marked a turning point in medical history, defying the fatal expectations of the time. The maroon stamp features a formal portrait of McDowell and celebrates the 150th anniversary of this groundbreaking achievement. Lightly mounted with stamp hinge tape, removable without damage. No gum disturbance unless noted.
Features:
- Denomination: 4 cents
- Issue Year: 1959
- Scott Catalog No. 1138
- Occasion: 150th Anniversary of McDowell’s surgery
- Subject: Dr. Ephraim McDowell, surgical pioneer
- Design: Portrait in maroon tone
- Cancel Type: Black horizontal cancellation bars
- Fit Notes: Standard commemorative size; ideal for collectors of medical history, Kentucky heritage, or 19th-century innovation