WW2 Minkus/Gimbels Patriotic Covers

Exhibit by Don Denman

In response to the announcement of the National Defense stamp of October 1940, Minkus produced 52 different WWII patriotic covers in 1941. Sold by Gimbels "Famous Stamp Department", the covers featured patriotic designs and messages, such as "We Will Win!" and "Support Our Troops." Minkus produced 52 different WWII patriotic designs but the unused 12 covers shown in this exhibit were the first covers sold through Gimbels. These covers were also used in promotions for those who donated money to the Red Cross or other war relief organizations.

The Minkus/Gimbels patriotic covers were very popular during the war years; they were a way for people to show their support for the troops and to help those in need. They are often collected today and can be found on variety of different types of envelopes such as First Day Covers, event covers, and other commemorative uses. They are a valuable historical record of the war years, and they are also a reminder of the patriotism and generosity of the American people.