1936 Neptune’s Realm US Navy Recruiting Shellbacks Pollywogs Equator Crossing

Date: 1936
Artist: Unknown
Size (in): 42” x 28”
Size (cm): 106.7 x 71.1
Condition: B/B+
Linen backed: No

This vintage original and rare interwar period poster was issued by the United States Navy for recruiting purposes in 1936.  This poster explains US Navy traditions related to crossing the equator and features photos of the ceremonies connected to this event.   Text on the poster explains the Navy tradition of calling those that have crossed the equator “Shellbacks” and those that have not “Polliwogs”.   Recruiting posters issued between the World Wars such as this example tended to emphasis opportunities to travel and learn valuable job skills rather than the appeals to patriotism commonly seen during wartime.     The lower margin indicates a 1936 publication date.   

This vintage original poster has no tape or pinholes and was never hung up or used. The poster shows moderate handling wear including some bumping on the edges and modest toning from age. There are a couple faint blotches at the bottom of the poster and overall condition is otherwise very good.