Rare & Original Columbian Exposition World’s Fair Envelope with Mephisto Segars Poster Stamp Advertisement for your consideration. The envelope measures approx. 3 3/4 inches X 6 1/4 inches. American, late 19th Century. Illustrated advertising cover for Mephisto Segars, featuring a striking chromolithographed devil figure with bat-like wings, issued by D. Hirsch & Company. Postally used with a 1¢ Columbian Exposition commemorative stamp, canceled New York, 1893. Addressed to J. Q. Aymer Williamson, 69 William Street, New York City. A vivid example of American cigar advertising, notable for its bold iconography, intact postal use, and crossover appeal for collector genres including Tobacciana, Advertising & World’s Fair enthusiasts. The envelope is in a protective sleave loosely attached to a filing card backing with handwritten, “SEGAR” documented title at top. Excellent antique condition. Shows minor wear commensurate with age and use. Minor toning, staining, and handling wear. Fine to very fine, near mint. See photos. Displays important, Scarce!
New York City’s first unionized cigar shop, Mephisto Cigars, was introduced by David Hirsch and was the 27th trademark issued by the United States following the passage of the Copyright Act of 1870. According to Hirsch’s registration, “Our trade-mark consists of the word-symbol ‘Mephisto,’ it being an abbreviation of ‘Mephistopheles,’ the fiend of Goethe’s ‘Faust.’”. The company employed a young man by the name of Samuel Gompers, who became “the most influential labor leader of his time”. Samuel became famous for founding the American Federation of Labor. -James E. Arsenault & Company and Wikipedia (source).
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Item id:PBY1408