38 Star Flag - Great Star Pattern

 

1876-1889 Colorado “Great Star Pattern” Parade Flag

This exceptionally rare 38 Star Centennial Parade Flag is a collectors showpiece indeed, as its’ “Great Star Pattern” was printed upside- down on the canton when it was created many, many years ago. 
The “Great Star Pattern” also known as, “Great Luminary Pattern” and “Great Flower Pattern” are terms used to describe the arrangement of stars in a pattern that create the illusion of one large star. Although there are several variations for 38 Great Star patterns, this particular pattern is unique and without question a rare treasure in American flag collecting since the 38 Stars are exhibited in an  upside- down, “Great Star Pattern” creating quite an anomaly, making this flag a stand alone presence amongst few equals known to still exist today.
On August 1, 1876, Colorado became the 38th state to join the Union, on the year of our nation’s centennial of independence from Great Britain. Although stars were typically added the following year of their inception into the Union, Colorado was added prior to it becoming official on July 4th 1877 due to the fact flag makers wanted to include the added star during the 6 month long World’s Fair event held in honor of the Centennial International Exposition being celebrated in Philadelphia.   

Description
Flag and gold colored fringe confirmed by microscopy to be made of silk; Measures 7” on the hoist x 9 ¾” on the fly; 34 white stars on the cornflower blue color canton are printed in an upside- down, “Great Star Pattern” 4 are floating and 4 stars are slightly larger and flanked on all four corners of the canton.

Mounting
The flag is pressure mounted on 100% black cotton fabric; Showcased by a 16 ½” x 14 ½” stunning wood gilded frame. 

Condition:  Flag has vertical separation along the hoist where the flag had been attached to a staff; 10th white stripe has ¼” material loss, backed by same color silk during the mounting process; the bottom of canton has ¼” material loss; minor material separation throughout. Overall the condition of the flag for this period is very good to excellent.

Email: jtfrancis.com@gmail.com

Item: 38-223-664