Lot # 1788: 1877-1890 United States of America Massive 9'6" x 5'5" Flag with 38 Stars

"Old Glory" arrives in a supersized version from the distant past, with the presentation of this 1877-1890 Flag of the United States of America. Adorned with 38 stars, this massive 19th Century Flag measures approximately 10'6" x 5'5". This 38-star design came into use after Colorado was admitted to the Union in 1876, and flew over the land from July 4, 1877, to July 3, 1890, when it was replaced by the 43-star Flag. The star arrangement is configured as 8-7-8-7-8, and brass eyelets located at the top and bottom of the left side, have strands of twine attached. Though the stars and the white stripes have darkened considerably, this "Star-Spangled Banner" still flies high in sturdy condition, with moderate signs of wear on the material, which appears to be linen. The vertical white strip at left has a small notch of loss, and a star is stamped next to this notch. The number 6 is stamped below the star, and the name "W.H. Wood" is written on the vertical strip at another point. Given the size of this attractive antique Flag, it is likely that it flew over a government building long ago, as the dimensions are consistent in size with flags flown at such locations in the past.