Framed Vintage War Bond Posters
Framed vintage war bond posters were used as a way to sell government-issued debt securities to the public, in order to help fighting countries finance World War I and World War II. War bonds, in particular, were either sold directly to consumers through the retail market or were wholesale and thus traded on the stock market instead.
Governments encouraged citizens to buy war bonds by appealing to their consciences and the need for patriotism, as seen in many framed vintage war bond artwork. One popular advertisement, “Fight or Buy Bonds,” is a perfect example of this. A woman, who looks similar to the Statue of Liberty, holds an American flag in each hand; the flag in her right hand is thrust high into the air. The words “Fight or Buy Bonds – Third Liberty Loan” appear beside her, as if telling viewers at the time that if they aren’t fighting in the war, they should at least participate by buying bonds.
John Parrot/Stocktrek Images produces many famous framed vintage war bond art. “Share in the Victory,” one of the artist’s most popular prints, showcases a woman with short black hair dressed in angelic robes, complete with angel wings. She carries a sword in her right hand and a giant black feather in her left. Beneath her read the words, “Share in the Victory: Save for Your Country, Save for Yourself. Buy War Savings Stamps.” The artwork’s vibrant blue background only adds to its patriotic nature as well.
War bond art and advertisements appeal not only to veterans of war, but to collectors and lovers of art in general, too. Once viewed as tools to encourage citizens to invest in the war, such pieces are now revered as an art form suitable for both personal enjoyment and gallery viewings.