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Miniature Biographies Published by Duke Brand Cigarettes - Short Histories of [Civil War] Generals

Park Place, New York: Knapp & Company, 1890s. A partial set of miniature chromolithographed biographies (44 present here), published as part of an advertising campaign for Duke Brand Cigarettes. Each was issued in a box of cigarettes in a "collect-them-all"-type marketing ploy. Each measures approx. 3" by 1.5", is approx. 16 pp., and stapled in original chromolithographed illustrated wrappers. The wrappers are particularly well-designed, and feature a portrait of the subject on the upper wrapper, and an allegorical/metaphorical illustration on the lower wrapper that matches that figure's accomplishments. For example, the lower wrapper on the biography of Gen. U.S. Grant shows union soldier charging to victory beneath the stars and stripes. Facsimile signature inside cover. 13 pp. each.

This set is lacking six: Forrest, Ewell, Butler, Hood, Sherman, and Rosencrans as well as several of the women figures, such as Sarah Bernhardt. Very good. Lightly toned. The occasional minor short tear, some rubbed. Scrapbook residue and/or lacking litho on verse some booklets (removed from album?).

Price: $2,400.00

Item #22100836