"Buy Your Extra 6th War Loan Bonds Here" Vintage WWII Poster, 1944

This is an original World War II poster, dating to 1944. The poster reads "Buy Your Extra 6th War Loan Bonds Here" in bold red, white, and blue letters. The poster's composition features a dynamic depiction of Uncle Sam holding a rifle and running through the hole of the number 6. The poster was produced by the U.S. Government Printing Office, for the US Treasury, in Washington D.C.

When America entered the war, new government organizations, including the 1942  Office of War Information (OWI), were tasked with putting out a singular patriotic message, achieved primarily through posters and printed pamphlets. The war ushered in the biggest advertising campaign to date, critical to the wartime communication needs of every combatant: from raising money, recruiting soldiers and boosting volunteer efforts, to spurring production and provoking outrage at enemy atrocities. One of the most common themes found in the posters was the purchase of War Bonds and Victory Bonds.

The government received funding directly from United States citizens in the form of war saving bonds and stamps, which were paid back later with interest. Purchasing war bonds was viewed as a way for American citizens to support the war effort. Traditionally, large dollar bond amounts, ranging from $50 to $1000, were purchased for bonds. 

Defense Bonds first went on the market on May 1, 1941, and they were renamed War Bonds after the US entered the war in December 1941. Eight War Loan Drives were conducted in the US from 1942 to 1945. Each was meant to raise an additional $9-$15 billion in sales. Towns received quotas, with the aim of promoting competition between towns. Volunteers went door-to-door, pleading for sales and rewarding purchasers with stickers to display on their window or door.

The drives were conducted on the following dates: First War Loan Drive: Nov. 30 to Dec. 23, 1942; Second War Loan Drive: Apr. 12 to May 1, 1943; Third War Loan Drive: Sep. 9 to Oct. 1, 1943; Fourth War Loan Drive: Jan. 18 to Feb. 15, 1944; Fifth War Loan Drive: June 12 to July 8, 1944; Sixth War Loan Drive: Nov. 20 to Dec. 16, 1944; Seventh War Loan Drive: May 14 to June 30, 1945; Victory Loan Drive: Oct. 29 to Dec. 8, 1945.

By the end of the war, 85 million Americans (out of a population of 131 million) had purchased $185.7 billion dollars of bonds – over $2,000 per person, at a time when the average income was $2,000 per year. The patriotism and personal sacrifice of the average citizen played a significant part in the Allied war effort.

CONDITION:

Very good condition overall. Color lithographic poster. Color is vibrant with very little fading.  "U.S. Government Printing Office: 1944-O-610771" is printed at bottom left margin,  "Official U.S. Treasury Poster" at the bottom center margin, and  "WFD-957" at the bottom right margin. Framed to the highest archival standards with acid-free mats and a custom-built wooden frame. 

Dimensions: 28 1/4" H x 20 3/4" W x 1 3/4" D

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.