Description
The Poster
Own the iconic “You Buy Em, We’ll Fly Em” WWII defense bonds poster. Painted by the Wilkinsons. Features a fighter pilot giving the thumbs-up from the cockpit. Conservation-mounted, linen-backed. Excellent condition.
One of the most compelling war posters ever created.
Artists: J. Walter Wilkinson & Walter G. Wilkinson
Title: You Buy Em, We’ll Fly Em
Campaign: Defense Bonds Stamps
Year: 1942
Government Reference: 1942-O-436100
Size: X-Small
The Image
A young pilot in a khaki uniform sits in a U.S. Army fighter plane cockpit. He gives the thumbs-up sign with confidence and pride.
Below the cockpit, text reads: “Defense Bonds Stamps.”
To the right, the Concord Minute Man statue appears. He holds a plow in one hand and a rifle in the other. Text curves around him: “The more bonds you buy – the more planes will fly.”
The Artist Signature
The Wilkinsons signed their work with a unique mark: two kneeling stick figures, each holding a paintbrush, with an ‘s’ added to their last name. Look for it left of the cockpit.
Hollywood Connection
This poster inspired the Pearl Harbor film featuring Ben Affleck. Many original WWII posters became the basis for later movie posters.
Why Collectors Love This
✓ Most Iconic – Premier WWII defense bonds poster
✓ Master Artists – J. Walter Wilkinson & son designed it
✓ Powerful Message – Resonates with modern audiences
✓ Film History – Pearl Harbor movie inspiration
✓ Investment Quality – Rare, highly sought wartime memorabilia
Artist Information
J. Walter Wilkinson (1892–1988) – Pioneer commercial artist
Walter G. Wilkinson (1917–1971) – Son, artist collaborator
Together, they created a series of six WWII war bond posters. This design remains their most famous work.
Multiple Sizes Available
The Wilkinsons printed this poster in at least three sizes. Check for your preferred version.
Condition & Quality
✓ Original vintage poster (1942)
✓ Not a reproduction
✓ Conservation-mounted
✓ Professionally linen-backed
✓ Excellent condition
✓ Ready to frame
Authenticity
We guarantee authenticity on all posters. Every piece includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
U.S. Government Printing Office Reference: 1942-O-436100
Your Order
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Quick Facts:
- Original WWII defense bonds poster
- Title: You Buy Em, We’ll Fly Em
- Artists: J. Walter Wilkinson & Walter G. Wilkinson
- Year: 1942
- Government Reference: 1942-O-436100
- Size: X-Small (multiple sizes available)
- Conservation-mounted, linen-backed
- Excellent condition
- Not a reproduction
- Inspired Pearl Harbor film
- Certificate of Authenticity included
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