24" x 19.25".

Canadian. Early 1900s. Single-sided tin (SST). This is a fabulous piece of Canadian tobacco history that is rare and seldom comes to market. The sign shows a portrait of an older Sir Wilfred Laurier, Canada's 7th Prime Minister (1896-1911) and the only Prime Minister to endorse a Canadian cigar. The image is contained within an embossed horseshoe. While horseshoes come with a variety of meanings, in politics, there exists the "horseshoe theory" which states that the far left and far right are not as opposite as they appear, but like a horseshoe, each side not only resembles the other, but are so close they almost join together. Whether this was the reason for the design of the sign is unknown, but it would befit the man who was a leader known for his compromising nature. The union between Laurier and The Rock City Cigar Co. Ltd., Levis, Que. is also speculative. It's possible that it was a perfect match because both entities originated in Quebec, with Rock City founded in 1899 in Levis, Quebec and Laurier being being born in St-Lin, Canada East (now known as Quebec) OR something simple as Laurier being Canada's first French-Canadian Prime Minister. Whatever the explanation, the end product resulted in this fabulous sign that is rarely seen and highly coveted by collectors of tobacciana, early Canadian advertising or Items of historical or political interest. Makers mark "Macdonald Mfg. Co. Limited Toronto' at lower center edge. Authenticated by The Authentication Company (TAC #400665). All items are guaranteed authentic by Miller & Miller Auctions. All purchases are eligible for delivery to the Spring Dixie Gas & Oil Show on April 10-12 2025. From the Brian Reid Collection.

Grade: 7.25. Shows oxidation, wear and impressions. Some fade and pitting. but stable surface.

Single-sided tin (SST).