This original real photo postcard captures two World War I-era American soldiers posed proudly in front of a large U.S. flag backdrop. Both men wear their service uniforms complete with campaign hats, buttoned shirts, and breeches tucked into puttees or leggings. The soldier on the left is seated with legs crossed, hands resting naturally, and gazes directly at the camera. The standing soldier rests his hand casually on his comrade’s shoulder, creating a sense of camaraderie. The flag’s stars and stripes fill the background, adding a strong patriotic tone to the image. The reverse of this postcard has an AZO stamp box indicating that it dates back to between 1904 and 1918. The card’s style and subject matter suggest that the postcard likely dates to the World War I period (circa 1917–1919). SOLD
This original 1941 ink blotter, issued by the Eberhard Faber Pencil Co., is a striking piece of World War II-era advertising that highlights the vital role of stationery and writing instruments in wartime production. Measuring approximately 3 1/8 x 5 3/4 inches, this blotter is not only a functional office supply from the past but also a fascinating collectible reflecting the patriotic spirit of the time. The artwork features a Uncle Sam-like figure dressed in a patriotic red, white, and blue vest with stars and stripes. He is seen writing on a piece of paper, reinforcing the idea that even stationers serve the country by supplying essential tools for planning, designing, and producing materials necessary for the war effort. In the background is a busy industrial scene including factories and airplanes, emphasizing wartime manufacturing.The lower portion of the blotter contains two bold banners stating: “Production Begins with a Pencil” and “Production Will Win the War”. The blotter is marked Courtesy of Eberhard Faber Pencil Co. and was distributed by Simax Stationery Company of New York City, a firm specializing in printers, office outfitting, and engraving. Eberhard Faber was a major force in American pencil manufacturing, with roots tracing back to 1761 in Germany. The company’s U.S. operations began in the mid-1800s, and by the early 20th century, they were one of the most respected stationery brands. Known for their high-quality pencils, including the iconic Blackwing 602, Eberhard Faber supplied artists, writers, and engineers. During WWII, their products were essential for military and industrial planning, as reflected in this ink blotter’s theme.This blotter is in excellent condition. The colors remain vibrant, and the artwork is clear and legible, making it an excellent display piece for collectors of vintage advertising, WWII memorabilia, or office ephemera. (SOLD)
This patriotic vintage postcard celebrates America’s 4th of July holiday. The postcard is chock full of action. A young girl runs with a lit firecracker in one hand and an American flag in the other hand. A firing cannon and exploding firecrackers add to the action. Unlit firecrackers creatively spell out the words “4th of July”. A 1912 postmark from Chicago, can be seen on the reverse of the card. The postcard offers wishes for a happy 4th of July, from one sister to another. The card is addressed to Pana, Illinois. Pana became incorporated in 1857. “Pana” is derived for the name of an American Indian tribe (Pawnee). In the late 19th and early 20th century the town became centered around the coal mining industry. In 1899, the Pana Riot occurred. The incident happened after a violent confrontation between black and white miners. Seven people were killed in the violence. When the situation calmed, about two thirds of the black miners moved to another mine, located in Kansas. Despite some extra effort, I have been unable to identify the publisher of this card. SOLD
This vintage postcard was published during or shortly after World War I. The “Great War” occured between 1914 and 1918. This patriotic postcard celebrates the alliance betweens the United States and France. The card features a photo of President Woodrow Wilson, the statue of liberty, and the American and French flags. The French words printed on the card are translated as “Victory for Right and Freedom”. The postcard was published in Paris by Dix as part of a series (no. 1376). SOLD
This cabinet card photograph features a lovely teenage girl posing for a profile portrait. I am hypothesizing about her age, but I can not be too far off the mark. She is nicely dressed and is wearing a stylish straw hat. Note the American flag pin attached to the hat band. Perhaps this image was taken on July fourth. This photo was taken at the Rothschild studio in Chicago, Illinois. The studio was located on State Street and Van Buren. The studio was within the A. M. Rothschild Department Store and the store was opened at the aforementioned address in 1881. The store was bought out by Marshall Fields in 1923. (SOLD)
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 