The cost and distribution of the smallpox vaccine evolved significantly over time, reflecting broader shifts in public health policy. In the 19th century, following Jenner's discovery, the vaccine was often produced and sold commercially by private physicians or "vaccinators," making it accessible mainly to the wealthy. However, recognizing the public health threat, governments and philanthropists soon intervened. Many municipalities began offering free vaccinations, and charities funded programs for the poor. The vaccine itself was inexpensive to produce—often derived from calves—but distribution was initially complex, relying on "arm-to-arm" transfer where lymph from a vaccinated person's blister was used to inoculate others. The 20th century transformed this model with the development of mass-produced, heat-stable, freeze-dried vaccines. During the global eradication campaign, the vaccine was provided free of charge by donor countries and organizations like the WHO and UNICEF. This international funding covered not just the vaccines but also the logistics of delivery, including the iconic bifurcated needles that allowed rapid, low-cost immunization by minimally trained workers, ensuring even remote communities could be reached.