For sale is a beautiful vintage Cram’s Imperial World Globe by the George F. Cram Company of Indianapolis, Indiana. This classic 12-inch diameter desktop globe dates to the early 1980s (circa 1978–1986) based on the political boundaries shown:
• Full “Union of Soviet Socialist Republics” (USSR)
• “Zaire” (now Democratic Republic of the Congo)
• Separate “W. Germany” and “E. Germany”
• “Yugoslavia” and “Czechoslovakia” as single countries
• “Iran (Persia)”, “Burma”, “Kampuchea (Cambodia)”, “Thailand (Siam)”, and “Namibia (South-West Africa)”
It captures a fascinating snapshot of the late Cold War world before the major geopolitical changes of 1989–1993.
Features:
• 12-inch diameter globe with teal/aqua oceans and yellowish-tan landmasses
• Prominent eagle cartouche: “CRAM’S IMPERIAL WORLD GLOBE”
• Brass-colored metal base and full meridian ring (tilts and rotates smoothly)
• Detailed cartography with cities, mountains, rivers, and the exact scale legend: Natural Scale 1 = 41,800,000; One Inch = 660 Statute Miles
• Classic educational design popular for homes and offices in the 1980s
Condition: Good vintage condition with nice patina and legible printing throughout. Minor age-related wear consistent with its age (light scuffs, slight oxidation on metal parts possible — see photos). Spins and tilts freely. No major tears, dents, or missing pieces. Displays beautifully!
Perfect as a decorative piece for a study, library, office, or man cave. A wonderful conversation starter and piece of American cartographic history.
Dimensions: Approximately 12” diameter globe; overall height with stand ~16–18” (please verify with your measurements).
Shipping: Carefully packed with bubble wrap and foam. I ship quickly via USPS or UPS (calculated at checkout). Local pickup available if you’re near Greenville, SC.
Feel free to message with any questions. Thanks for looking!