Here we have a very rare anti-bribery poster produced by Paul Powell during his run as Illinois’s Secretary of State. That run ended with his death and the discovery of hundreds of thousands in bribes found in a slew of shoebox’s in his hotel room. So what you’re looking at is government poster that elevates to the legendary given the notoriety and epic irony. Let’s jump into the history. First, here’s the text of the poster.
NOTICE
IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO OFFER ANY GRATUITY, TIP OR BRIBE TO ANY EMPLOYEE.
IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY EMPLOYEE TO ACCEPT A GRATUITY, TIP OR BRIBE.
VIOLATORS WILL BE PROSECUTED.
PAUL POWELL, SECRETARY OF STATE
Paul Powell was Illinois Secretary of State from 1965 until his death in 1970. His tenure is most remembered for the corruption scandal that emerged after his death.
The "Shoebox Scandal" refers to the discovery of nearly $800,000 in cash found stuffed into shoeboxes in his hotel room closet after he died. This revelation, along with other evidence, exposed a pattern of bribery and illegal activities during his time in office. Powell's estate was ultimately valued at several million dollars, a figure far exceeding what could be explained by his modest state salary.
This scandal cemented Powell's reputation as a symbol of political corruption in Illinois.
The rare political poster comes out of the estate of ephemera collector in the Chicago area. The vintage poster was produced between 1965 and 1970.
The rare vintage poster measures 23" wide by 16" tall. There is patina from use throughout, including some discoloration in the upper left corner. Please all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO boxes). Free shipping on the rare and notorious 1960s political poster.
You have an insane story to tell with this historical poster. You can also get ahead of all the bribing activities surrounding you.
