Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic 48-star American national flag featuring individually appliquéd cotton stars on a deep blue wool bunting canton. The stars are secured with a distinctive machine-guided zigzag stitch, while the stripes are joined with flat-felled seams, representing a transitional period of American textile manufacturing.
Story
Designated in 1912 under President Taft, the 48-star flag remained the nation's standard for 47 years, guiding Americans through two World Wars and the Great Depression. This specific flag's hand-guided zigzag stitching on the stars suggests a proud domestic or small-scale workshop origin rather than mass factory production.
Maker / Origin
While the maker is unidentified due to the lack of a visible hoist stencil, the construction style is typical of mid-century American flag makers like Annin & Co. or Dettra Flag Company, or potentially a dedicated home-front seamstress. During the World War eras, millions of these flags were produced by both commercial manufacturers and local community groups to support the war effort.
Condition & Value
The flag appears to be in very good vintage condition with minor staining on the white stripes and light wear consistent with age. There are no major visible tears, moth holes in the wool, or significant fraying on the fly end, which greatly helps preserve its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.