Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic American ceremonial parade flag featuring a heavy cast metal eagle finial and decorative gold bullion cord and tassels. This set represents the formal 'presentation' style used by civic organizations, schools, or military veterans' groups for indoor display and formal processions.
Story
Post-WWII America saw a massive surge in civic pride and fraternal organizations. These heavy, fringed flags were the centerpieces of town halls and VFW posts. The eagle finial was designed to command respect from the front of a parade.
Maker / Origin
While the specific maker is often hidden on a label inside the pole sleeve, companies like Annin Flagmakers (est. 1847) dominated this market. They provided flags for everything from the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln to the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Condition & Value
The flag shows some age-related dust and minor staining on the white stripes. The eagle finial has a nice patina but may have slight oxidation; overall, it appears well-preserved for its age. Significant staining or fraying would reduce value by 50%. Value is driven by the star count (48 vs 50) and the quality of the eagle finial.
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.