Featured Attempting to purchase a vintage 48-star American flag—does this look legitimate?

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/253327357584

It looks like a really neat piece for my antique collection. I figured I’d get some input before making an antique purchase on eBay, if that’s understandable.

Thank you in advance!

 

48 star flags were made right up to and including 1959.

 

Seems an odd thing to reproduce since should still be widely available. And vintage, by way. Not antique.

Debora

 

It would be much more interesting if it was the 49 star version. But even that wouldn't be antique.

 

Sounds Alaskawaiinphobic

 

What does, Terry?

 

Hi Bakersgma,
The 48 star flag is still made today. Most flag companies still make most flags. I bought a new 13 star flag three years ago. The original one had to be taken down for repair. The replacement is still being used.
greg

 

I know, but if you want want one "from the period of official use" the 48-star spans from 1912 to 1959 (Jun30.) That was my point, thinking that was Ben's desire for his "collection." A 1959 issued one would have a lot less wear than one from 1912 (which might account for the relatively good condition of the one he's asking about.)

 

I have a big cotton one....how do I tell when it was issued..?

 

Good question for which I do not have an answer.

I have a huge flag that family story says was flown over the Carnarsie Yacht Club. The owner's name and the date 1904 were written on the canvas edge. Beyond that kind of provenance, I do not know whether the manufacturers provided any other tell-tale.

 

This is a good question and not one I’ve thought of. I know I have a few put away though I don’t recall any having dates on them.

 

Welcome!
Did you buy it?
It looked good to me other than the grommets seemed that they may be a bit too shiny.

 

Yes, I did end up buying it. Seems that everyone is rather confident in its authenticity.

 

Do you think this one could be a reproduction? The seller said he bought it at an estate sale. “AMERICAN LEGION” is written on the side in heavily-faded text, which is an indication that it must be somewhat old.

 

OK!
I have a lot of flags. Some of which I display, one always.
I collect photos of flags in photos and postcards and especially service star flags and those visible in homes and biz windows.

 

My bad, haha!

 

I would say that that reason is NOT trustworthy.
You may be able to research when they did that and if they still are doing so.
What did you pay for it?

 

$40, which seems to fall on the lower end of 48-star flag prices, to my understanding.

I looked on the seller’s eBay page and he sold lots of antiques and vintage items. He also had great ratings.

I sure hope I didn’t get ripped off.

 

Have you just searched Goggle to see what they are selling for new?
~
Did you fight anyone for it?

 

We did not collect flags. Nevertheless, my mother bought 2 little pennant type ones with 48 stars right before the official switch to 50, with the idea that they would be collectible someday. Bet lots of people did this & that lots of examples around now date from then.