Original Item. Only One Available. This is an extraordinarily scarce example of one of the most sought-after Marine Corps Enlistment posters of the World War I era. Designed in 1915 by Howard Chandler Christy, this poster depicts a gorgeous woman dressed in full Sergeant’s Marine Corps dress, with a cartridge belt, suspenders, and her M1905 Bayonet. In the background is a trench warfare scene with Marines carrying the U.S. & Marine Corps flag through battle.

The poster comes in a large professional-grade frame measuring 35 x 46”, and the poster is next-to flawless! The colors are still very well-retained on this extraordinarily scarce piece.

One of the scarcest Marine Corps posters of all time! An identical poster is part of the Library of Congress collection. Comes ready for further research and display.

The United States Marine Corps had a deep and experienced pool of officers and non-commissioned officers at the outset of World War I, and recruited vigorously to increase their numbers. The Corps distinguished themselves throughout the war, notably at the savage Battle of Bellau Wood, earning a reputation for tenacity and toughness and the respect of the German soldiers.

World War I began as a conflict between the Allies (France, the United Kingdom, and Russia) and the Central Powers (Germany and Austria-Hungary). The assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand, the heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary and his wife Sophie ignited the war in 1914. Italy joined the Allies in 1915, followed by the United States in 1917. A ceasefire was declared at 11 AM on 11 November 1918. The propaganda poster was a major tool for broad dissemination of information during the war. Countries on both sides of the conflict distributed posters widely to garner support, urge action, and boost morale.