Original and iconic World War I poster by Leonard Shafer, 1917, \"THEY KEPT THE SEA LANES OPEN - INVEST IN THE VICTORY LIBERTY LOAN!\", W. F. Powers Company Lithographers, New York, stone lithograph on paper, linen backed, 39.50\" x 29.25\" (size is given in inches, usually to the nearest half inch, width precedes height; measurements are for the sheet size, not including the linen overlap), \"A\" excellent condition, pristine image area with retained original colors, there is some professional restoration in the lower left corner although you\'ll need a black light to see it clearly (see pictures). This particular poster was printed early in the war on bright white paper, toward the end of the conflict they were printed on newsprint and are not nearly as nice. This poster depicts a US flagged destroyer that has depth charged a German U-boat to the surface; it encourages people on the home front to support the war effort through subscriptions to the Victory Liberty Loan program. Whether you are a fastidious collector or just someone who will frame this for a den or office, you will not be disappointed; the restoration notwithstanding, this is an excellent example of a World War I poster.We sell only original posters, no reproductions and all sales are satisfaction guaranteed or return the poster, less shipping cost of course.Posters during World War I were designed to instill in the people a positive outlook, a sense of patriotism and confidence. They linked the war in trenches with the war at home. From a practical point, they were used to encourage all Americans to help with the war effort. The posters called upon every man, woman, and child to endure the personal sacrifice and domestic adjustments to further the national agenda. They encouraged rationing, conservation and sacrifice. In addition, the posters were used for recruitment, productivity, and motivation as well as for financing the war effort. The stark, colorful graphic designs elicited strong emotions. The posters played to the fears, frustrations, and faith in freedoms that lingered in people\'s minds during the war.