48 Star Flag "Defiance" - 50" x 88"

Updated August 9: This has been sold.

A 48-star American national flag, produced by the Annin Company in New York City. Large, in very good condition, and glorious.

The 48-star flag was officially adopted in 1912 following the admission of New Mexico and Arizona to the Union. It remained the official flag through WWI, WWII, and the Korean War, until Alaska gained statehood in 1959, adding the 49th star. While cotton flags with sewn construction were seen before WWII, wool was the preferred fabric for long-term outdoor use due to its water-shedding properties. However, after 1945, the production of wool bunting flags declined in favor of cotton and cotton/synthetic blends that resisted moths while still shedding water.

This flag features a machine-sewn cotton canton and stripes. The stars, also made of cotton, are double-appliquéd using a zigzag machine stitch. A canvas sleeve with two brass grommets. 

"Defiance" was a brand name of the Annin Company. This style of Annin tag was in use in 1944.

Annin is the nation's oldest flag-maker, established in the 1820s on the New York waterfront and incorporated in 1847. Though Annin expanded its operations to Verona, New Jersey, in 1916, it maintained its headquarters and some production in Manhattan until 1960.

Size: 50" x 88"

Shipping: $10. Please allow two weeks for shipping.