"Chessie says: 'Join the Savings Service'. Buy United States Defense Bonds and Stamps" Vintage WWII Poster

This is a vintage Chesapeake and Ohio Railway U.S. Savings Bonds poster from WWII, dating to 1941. The poster reads “Chessie says: ‘Join the Savings Service.’ Buy United States Defense Bonds and Stamps” in red, white, and blue lettering. The poster depicts C&O’s mascot, a sleepy white kitten named “Chessie,” under a blanket. The poster was published in concert with the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, as part of the “1941 Industries Cooperation Series.”  The text, "This Poster Contributed by Chesapeake and Ohio Lines. Sleep like a Kitten. U.S. Defense Stamps May Be Purchased At Principal C&O Ticket Offices" in a scrolling ribbon at bottom.

During WWII, 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. However, in the 1940’s, the average American did not have extra money to purchase these large bond amounts. In response, war savings stamps were created by the United States Post Office. 

These postal stamps were in smaller denominations, starting at 10 and 25 cents, ranging up to $1 and $5, and could be collected in a war bond stamp book. The stamps earned no interest, but were used to eventually redeem a Series E War Bond. Once a person collected enough stamps they could purchase a larger war bond of $25, $50, or $100. 

CONDITION:

Good condition overall. Creases in poster paper, light toning and surface stains in margins, not affecting image. Small tear in right side margin.  "1941 Industries Cooperation Series" printed in black lower right margin. Sold unframed, as-is.

Poster Dimensions: 20"H x 15 1/4" W.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.