Frame Size (H x L): 14.5” x 18”
Flag Size (H x L): 6” x 10”  

Offered is a scarce thirty-eight star antique flag that is printed on coarse cotton.  Its stars are arranged in what is referred to as a summer-sky medallion, called that for its similarity to a starry night.  The large star in the middle is referred to as a “center star,” and it represents the newest state added to the Union (e.g., Colorado in the case of this thirty-eight star flag).  Three concentric rings of small stars surround the large center star.  Further, four medium flanking stars are positioned in the corners of the canton, and they surround the outermost concentric ring of small stars.    

The thirty-eight star flag represents the inclusion of Colorado to the Union.  Colorado was admitted on August 1st, 1876 and this flag became official on July 4th, 1877.  Presidents Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Cleveland, and Harrison all served under this flag.  Colorado became known as the “Centennial State,” a result of becoming official just twenty-eight days after the centennial.  The official star count for US flags in 1876 was the thirty-seven star flag.  However, it was common for flag makers to produce anticipatory flags in advance of their official date, making the thirty-eight star flag—and for historical reasons, the thirteen star flag—the most common flags flown during the centennial celebrations of 1876.       

The nation’s centennial in 1876 inspired patriotism across the county and reunited its citizens.  Cities of all sizes hosted parades and celebrations, and buildings and homes were canvased in red, white, and blue with flags being the primary symbol of national pride.  The most notable celebration was the Centennial International Exposition in Philadelphia.  In just six months, the Exhibition hosted nearly 10 million visitors, and included many extraordinary exhibits, including the introduction of the Corliss Steam Engine and Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone. 

The thirty-eight star flag was official until July 4th, 1890, the time at which the forty-three star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, and Idaho to the Union.

Conservation Process: This flag was hand sewn to cotton fabric, and both were hand sewn to a mounting board.  To prevent the black dye in the cotton fabric from seeping into the flag, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The flag is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: The antique frame is made of walnut and dates to between 1860 and 1880. 

Condition Report: This flag has some age appropriate staining and foxing. 

Collectability Level: The Best – Perfect for Advanced Collectors  
Date of Origin: 1876-1889  
Number of Stars: 38   
Associated War: The Indian Wars (1860-1890)   
Associated State: Colorado