Catalog Archive
Auction 189, Lot 263

"[Oil Promotion for Ellis-Mexia Oil Company] "

Subject: Texas, Oil

Period: 1922 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
11 x 16 inches
27.9 x 40.6 cm
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This 4-page advertisement in newspaper format promotes "The Ellis-Mexia Oil Co.,…Positively the Best Opportunity in the Great New Texas Field." This elaborate promotional piece uses all the typical lures: expert experience of officers, newspaper clippings, numerous photos of oil wells, a Map of a Part of the Great Balcones Fault Oil Belt (5.0 x 9.8") showing many wells in the area of the company’s holdings, and a sense of urgency. However, its hyperbole is exceptional with phrases such as: “Highest Quality …Lowest Price 1 Cent;” “At only 1-cent-a-share it offers you the quickest chance at fortune you have ever had”; and “We urge Immediate Purchase at the initial price, 1 Cent.” Oil Weekly reported on October 28, 1922 that its “Well No. 1 to start.” No other mention of this company was found, but it was issuing stock certificates as late as 1924.

References:

Condition: A

Issued folding on a remarkably clean sheet with one tiny split at a fold intersection.

Estimate: $160 - $190

Unsold

Closed on 9/14/2022

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