Dec. 2023 Militaria & Collectibles Auction
Lot 441A:
Description
Original flag bearing 47 sewn stars, used for only 39 days from January 1912 when New Mexico became the 47th state, until February 1912 when Arizona became the 48th state. US Flag code dictated that new stars could be added every July following the addition of a new state, making 47 star examples extremely uncommon and unofficial. The unique aspect of this is one, measuring approximately 60 inches by 71 inches, is that it is stamped US Army Standard Bunting, likely flown at an Army garrison. Each star is sewn on, as are the stripes. It has some moth holes, staining, and tattering consistent with age. Given the unofficial mature of these, combined with their short lived use, 47 star flags are among the rarest American flags in existence.
Condition: See description for condition report.
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