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39-Star American Flag Printed on Cotton with Whimsical Star Pattern, 1889

Offered by: The Great Republic

Description
This is a 39-star unofficial American flag, handmade and printed on cotton. The flag dates to 1889 and has a unique history, thanks to its rare star-count.

The flag’s canton is printed in a deep royal blue, with 39 five-pointed white stars. The stars are arranged in six rows, with a 7/6/7/6/7/6 star configuration. The stars are "whimsically" dyed to the flag's canton, leading us to believe this is a homemade flag. Thirteen red and white alternating stripes, which represent the 13 original colonies, complete the flag’s design.

The 39-star flag was never an official flag of America. The makers of 39-star flags gambled on the possibility of the Dakota Territory entering the Union without companions in 1877, and lost. Congress divided the Territory and admitted the North and South Dakota, Montana, Washington, and Idaho all together in 1889. As a result, this specific patriotic piece of American folk art is extremely unique.

CONDITION:

Flag is in good condition and flag is structurally stable. Several creases and light folds remain, mostly in centerfold, as expected with age and past use. Flag’s hoist is intact. Last two stripes are missing some fabric on fly end. Color is original and beautifully vibrant, especially in the blue canton.

The flag has been archivally presented, mounted floating and framed in a custom-built wooden frame.

Framed Size: 32" H x 40 ½” W x 1 ¾” D

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.

More Information

Origin:	United States
Period:	19th Century
Condition:	Good. Several creases and light folds remain, mostly in centerfold, as expected with age and past use. Last two stripes are missing some fabric on fly end.
Creation Date:	1889
Styles / Movements:	Americana, Traditional
Patterns:	Stripes & Solid
Dealer Reference #:	F225
Incollect Reference #:	732829

Dimensions

W.	40.5 in;	H.	32 in;	D.	1.75 in;
W.	102.87 cm;	H.	81.28 cm;	D.	4.45 cm;

Message from Seller:

Established in 2010, The Great Republic specializes in one-of-a-kind collectibles that honor American history, with a special focus on the rare and unique. Our collection is complete with rarities that are sure to wow, such as first edition books, antique hand-sewn flags from the Civil War, vintage travel posters, and original signatures from American presidents, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, just to name a few. P: 719.471.6157 E: headquarters@great-republic.com