Original Item: Only One Available. During World War II the U.S. Government issued millions of posters by hundreds of artists and distributed them widely throughout the country. The Office of War Information, working with various departments, was responsible for nearly all the posters. Most can be considered either warnings (careless talk), or encouragements (do your part), or fundraisers (buy war bonds).

The bonds that financed World War II were originally known as Defense Bonds, but after the Japanese attack at Pearl Harbor in December of 1941 they were called War Bonds. As the war progressed, and towards the end they were referred to as Victory Bonds. These bonds played an enormous part in winning the war. There were eight specific War Loan Drives conducted during the war from 1942 to 1945. Each drive was expected to bring in an additional $9 to $15 billion for the war effort. Over the course of the war some 85 million Americans purchased bonds – often in small denominations. About $185 billion was raised for the war effort from the sale of bonds.

This poster with artwork by George Kanelous and was distributed in 1945 by the U.S. Government Printing Office. The poster features a particularly effective image of the American flag flying over a lightly sketched rural farm scene and was painted by George Kanelous (1915-1998). Kanelous, born in Uruguay of Greek parents, came to the United States at age three. He participated in the WPA mural projects and was known as an illustrator for magazines as well as for his commercial art.

The text featured at the top and bottom:

MAKE VICTORY SECURE
BUY VICTORY BONDS

Bottom Border:

U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1945-O-665181

The poster measures 26” x 18 ½” and is in lovely condition. There is, however, minor damage on the top. There is a slight tear in the upper right corner and a few small holes along the top border. The edges and corner display signs of light wear. The original fold marks were created for the shipping process during the war and are still present.

All in all the poster is absolutely beautiful and comes ready to display!