Is there any chance that this is real?? Authentic??
Or is it just some stolen graphic fantasy piece?

I would say the real deal.

I agree, looks correct to me. The patterned cardboard backing was certainly used back then on buttons. Nice graphics on that one!
Darin

I would tend to disagree.I have never seen a back like that on any buttons even fake ones.

Whitehead&Hoag were one of the biggest makers.

When I was home for my lunch I took a couple pics of a 3" Mobil button in my collection, I would say ca. 1940. It has the woodgrain backing, with the original owners name in pencil. Button is marked L.A.R.S. CO.
Darin

Sorry so big guys....makes them too undetailed. Guess we will need more instructions on sizing when Jim gets it all set up. I will repost then.
Darin

I guess the lesser quality makers used that backing in the latter years.

Probably used wood overall instead of steel. Cheaper

Or maybe a war thing.

Wow, I thought for sure it was fake. Hmmm.? Thanks guys!!!
I know this was a authentic Sunoco graphic. I have this same graphic in other Sunoco advertisement items. What would these buttons have been for? Free hand outs?

I think many of these larger ones were worn by attendants to advertise oil changes or other services while working the island, and IMO were not meant for the general public. Some of these designs you do not see that many of, so not many were made and supports my theory that they were not public give-aways. Unlike say the Socony-Vacuum "Bug A Boo" buttons that are still found in great quantities and were a general give-away type item.

Trying a repost of the back of the button with the updated image hosting.
Darin

Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh, MUCH better!

off topic... Darin, Just an FYI, you're over your PM limit. I w tried to send you a message.