Hello, collectors! Today we're looking at a piece of American history: a 36-star United States flag. The 36-star flag is a significant one, as it became the official flag of the nation on July 4, 1865, just after the end of the Civil War, following the admission of Nevada as the 36th state. It remained the official flag for only two years, until Nebraska joined the Union in 1867.
This particular example, which according to the provided notes measures 24 by 18 inches, is a printed flag, likely made of cotton. Flags of this size and construction were often used as parade flags or for general patriotic display during the era. The stars are arranged in a classic, orderly rectilinear pattern of six rows of six.
Condition is always a major factor with textiles. This flag appears to be in remarkably good condition, with vibrant colors and minimal visible wear or staining. While this is wonderful for display, it also necessitates a degree of caution. Printed flags have been reproduced for various centennials and historical events. The bright condition here means we must consider the possibility of it being a later reproduction, though it could certainly be a very well-preserved period piece. An in-hand examination of the fabric weave and printing technique would be needed for definitive authentication.
If this is an authentic period piece from the mid-1860s, a conservative auction estimate would be in the $300 to $500 range. If it proves to be a later reproduction, its value would be more decorative, perhaps $20 to $50. Either way, it's a striking symbol of a pivotal moment in American history!
Item Report
36-Star American Flag
By:Unknown
Style:Americana / Historical Flags
Origin:United States
Materials:Cotton or cotton blend (printed)
Age:Circa 1865-1867 (or later reproduction)
Condition:Very Good (bright colors, minor creasing, no obvious tears or major stains visible in photos)
A printed 36-star American flag, likely made of cotton or a cotton blend. The stars are arranged in a rectilinear pattern of six rows of six stars each. The flag features the standard 13 alternating red and white stripes. According to the provided notes, it measures 24 by 18 inches.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a printed 36-star American flag. The 36-star flag became official on July 4, 1865, following the admission of Nevada, and remained official until July 4, 1867, when Nebraska was admitted. Printed flags of this size were often produced as parade flags or for general patriotic display. The condition appears quite good, with bright colors and minimal visible wear in the provided photos, which raises the possibility of it being a later reproduction or a very well-preserved example. In-hand examination of the fabric, printing technique, and thread (if hemmed) would be necessary to confirm period authenticity.
Individual Images:
whole flag front view
whole flag front view
detail of canton
detail of stripes
Provenance:
According to the provided notes, the flag measures 24 by 18 inches.
Condition:
Very Good (bright colors, minor creasing, no obvious tears or major stains visible in photos)
Identification Score: 95%
The object is clearly identifiable as a 36-star American flag based on the star count and design.
Authenticity Score: 60%
While the design is consistent with a 36-star flag, the bright colors, lack of significant patina or wear, and the nature of printed flags make it difficult to definitively authenticate from photographs alone. It could be a well-preserved period piece or a later reproduction. The score reflects this uncertainty.
Image Memory Note
None
None
Keywords
36-star flag, American flag, Americana, parade flag, Civil War era, Nevada statehood, United States
The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
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