Frame Size (H x L): 15” x 20”
Flag Size (H x L): 8” x 13”

Offered is an outstanding 42 star flag and a former highlight of the Pierce Collection of American Parade Flags. It is printed on coarse, glazed cotton. Its stars are arranged in medallion configuration, in which there is a large star in the middle of the canton, two rings of stars surrounding the large star, and a trio of flanking stars in each corner surrounding the rings. Each trio includes one larger star and a pair of smaller stars, one on each side thereof. The combination of the large star, the rings, and the flanking stars is dynamic and visually striking.

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., Washington in the case of forty-two star flags). The center star of the flag offered herein is particularly special, in that it includes two parts: a bold inner star and a surrounding outer halo. Haloed flags are extremely attractive and collectible. The maker of this flag is unknown; however, what is known is that the same maker produced most, if not all, haloed flags, including flags with 30, 34, 35, 36, and 42 stars. Forty-two star haloed flags have surfaced in a larger size and a smaller size, the flag offered herein being an example of one in the latter category. Both sizes are scarce.

Forty-two star flags are unusual, in that they include a count that was never official. In 1889, Congress considered adding the Dakota Territory as a single state. What happened, however, was that the Dakota Territory was split it into two states: North Dakota and South Dakota, and they were both admitted on November 2nd, 1889. Soon thereafter, on November 8th, 1889 Montana was admitted as the 41st state, and on November 11th Washington was admitted as the 42nd. When Congress went on break, flag makers began producing anticipatory 42 star flags.

To most everyone’s surprise, however, on July 3rd, 1890—just one day before the 42 star flag was going to become official—Congress admitted Idaho as the 43rd state. As such, the 42 star flag never actually became official. Instead, the 43 star flag did. Just a few days later, on July 10th, 1890, Congress admitted Wyoming as the 44th state. As a result of this rapid succession of state admissions, flag makers made large quantities of unofficial 42 star flags and official 44 star flags, but hardly any 43 star flags—even though 43 was an official star count.

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: This flag is in an antique Mahogany frame.

Condition Report: There is some light soiling along the hoist and fly end. There is some wear along the hoist end. Most notably, there is a vertical line of soiling near, and running parallel, to the fly end. In all other respects, this flag is in excellent condition and amongst the best of the period.

Collectability Level: The Best – Perfect for Advanced Collectors
Date of Origin: 1889-1890
Number of Stars: 42
Associated War: Indian Wars (1860-1890)
Associated State: Washington