Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic mid-to-late 20th-century patriotic costume jewelry brooch depicting the American flag on a flagpole with a decorative twisted rope lanyard. The flag is constructed from prong-set red, clear, and blue faceted glass rhinestones mounted onto a gold-tone cast metal framework.
Story
Patriotic costume jewelry surged during the 1976 U.S. Bicentennial, when everyday Americans wore vibrant rhinestone flags to celebrate national pride with affordable mid-century sparkle.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece reflects the prolific American costume jewelry manufacturing hubs of Rhode Island and New York, where firms like Coro, Trifari, and countless smaller ateliers produced high-sparkle novelty pins for department stores and gift shops.
Condition & Value
All rhinestones appear present and intact with good color. The reverse shows typical vintage surface patina, minor oxidation, and light gold-tone plating wear consistent with age, which does not significantly detract from value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.