1943 – A clever and elaborate cocktail party invitation with two professionally printed similitudes of World War II ration books
Grand Rapids, Michigan: 1943. Unbound. There are four items in this grouping: Two professionally printed faux similitudes purporting themselves to be World War II “Basic Cocktail Ration” books complete with panes of eight ration stamps, a cover letter (the invitation) from the Office of Cocktail Administration, and the envelope which mailed all three from one Grand Rapids, Michigan couple, the Judds, to another., the Rolorateks. In nice shape.
The Cocktail Ration Books are in the same format as those that were actually issued for real products like sugar, meat, gasoline, etc.
The cleverly-worded cover letter dated February 20, 1943, from Dorthy and Siegel Judd (the party givers) at the “Office of Cocktail Administration” located at 440 Morris Avenue, S.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan (their home address). Short tear at lower right corner.
The mailing envelope, postmarked February 23, 1943, within which they were enclosed. Roughly opened along the top edge.
The cover letter reads in part:
“Pursuant to Regulation O.C.A. #440 issued this date, we enclose herewith you Cocktail Ration Book which represents your allotment of cocktails next Thursday afternoon from 5:00 P.M. to 7: 00 P.M., February 25 at, the local O.C.A. office, 440 Morrise Avenue, southeast. . .. It will not be necessary to be prepared on presentation of the Cocktail Ration Book to declare the amount of Scotch, Gin and other critical materials you have in your possession. . ..”
. Very good. Item #010638During World War II, the federal government issued ration books which contained stamps (coupons) that citizens used with money to buy scarce goods like sugar, meat, coffee, and gasoline, ensuring fair distribution and conserving resources for the war effort. Although there was some fraud, these ration books effectively prevented hoarding and ensured that everyone got an equal share of scarce essentials.
A creative, sophisticated, and no doubt expensive, professionally produced elaborate invitation to a residential cocktail party. There must not have been many of these produced since it is not likely the Judds would have invited more than 50 people at the most to a cocktail party in their home.
At the time of listing, nothing similar is for sale in the trade. The Rare Book Hub shows no other similar items have appeared at auction, and OCLC shows none held by institutions.
.Price: $500.00