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Thomas : Americana and Folk Art

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36-Star United States Flag
Presentation Script

Hello, collectors and history enthusiasts! Today we have a fascinating piece of Americana: a 36-star United States flag. This flag represents a pivotal moment in American history. The 36-star flag became official on July 4, 1865, shortly after the end of the Civil War, following the admission of Nevada to the Union. It remained the official flag for only two years, until 1867. This particular example is a printed flag, likely made of cotton, which was a common and economical method for producing smaller flags during that era. The rectilinear arrangement of the stars is typical of the period. While we can't definitively authenticate the fabric and dyes without an in-hand inspection, the visible wear, minor staining, and overall construction strongly suggest it's a genuine period piece from the mid-1860s. It's a tangible connection to the immediate post-Civil War era. Assuming it is authentic, a conservative auction estimate for this historical artifact would be between $300 and $500. It's a wonderful piece of history that would be a great addition to any Americana collection.

Item Report

36-Star United States Flag

By: Unknown

Style: Militaria & Historical Artifacts

Origin: United States

Materials: Cotton or cotton blend

Age: circa 1865-1867

Condition: Good (some minor staining and wear, typical for age)

Value: Authentic: $300 - $500; Reproduction: $20 - $50

Maker's Marks / Writing: None visible

Date: 2026-08-04 20:34:26.593739

Description:

A printed 36-star United States flag, likely made of cotton or a cotton blend. The stars are arranged in a rectilinear pattern. The flag features 13 alternating red and white stripes. The 36-star flag became the official United States flag on July 4, 1865, following the admission of Nevada to the Union on October 31, 1864. It remained the official flag until July 4, 1867, when Nebraska was admitted, making it a 37-star flag. This flag is printed rather than sewn, which was a common and less expensive method of production for smaller flags during this period.

Assessment:

This appears to be an authentic, period-printed 36-star United States flag. The 36-star flag is historically significant as it was the official flag at the end of the American Civil War and during the immediate post-war period. The printed construction and the arrangement of the stars are consistent with flags produced during this era. The condition is generally good, with some minor staining and wear typical of its age.

Individual Images:

  • whole flag
  • whole flag
  • detail of stars
  • detail of stripes and fabric

Provenance:

According to the provided notes, the flag is approximately 24 by 18 inches and has 36 stars.

Condition:

Good (some minor staining and wear, typical for age)

Identification Score: 95%

The item is clearly identifiable as a 36-star United States flag based on the number of stars and the overall design.

Authenticity Score: 85%

The printed construction, the specific star count (36), and the visible wear and patina strongly suggest this is a period piece from the mid-1860s. However, without an in-hand examination of the fabric and dyes, a definitive authentication is not possible.

Image Memory Note

None     None

Keywords

36-star flag, United States flag, Civil War era, printed flag, Americana, historical artifact, United States

The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
Report ID:  : eqy9yb

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