TOPIC:

The QSA as an advertising gimmick.

The first example is for Salmon & Gluckstein's "Three Clasps Cigarettes" (utilising a fictitious and impossible combination of Ladysmith, Kimberley & Mafeking clasps). The Trade Marks Department "16 May 1913" stamp indicates that this particular design post-dates the ABW by over ten years. However, this brand was certainly on the market in 1901, cases being contributed gratis for the Wycombe reception of the Buckinghamshire Yeomanry on their return from the front (held on 17 June 1901): "That the generous gift of a box of 'Three Clasp' cigarettes by Messrs Salmon & Gluckstein to every guest in the huge tent was at once a very thoughtful and patriotic contribution" (Bucks Advertiser, 22 Jun 1901).

The second is for "Kingsford's Oswego" corn flour. With clasps for Transvaal, Paardeburg [sic], Cape Colony & Natal, and suspension bar inscribed "Facsimile of the S. African War Medal".

Reverse printed: "While so much inferior corn flour is being forced upon consumers always remember that "KINGSFORD'S OWEGO" can be obtained from leading stores throughout the kingdom / THE BEST IS THE CHEAPEST and this may be easily demonstrated by purchasing a packet of your grocer, or by writing for A FREE SAMPLE to the London depot, 44, Upper Thames St., E.C. / Facsimile of packet containing the original of all corn flours / ESTD OVER 50 YEARS / ABSOLUTELY PURE".









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