Questions & Answers
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When did the flag have 42 stars?
1 Answer
American flags had 42 stars for a very brief period of time following the official statehood of Washington on November 11, 1889. When Idaho became a state on July 3, 1890, the flag had 43 stars. Only a small number of manufacturers produced flags with only 42 stars. You'll find a selection of antique American flags on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for 42 Star Flag on 1stDibs
19th Century American 42 Star Flag, circa 1889
Located in Nantucket, MA
19th Century American 42 Star Flag, circa 1889, printed on linen period flag in the "Dancing Star" pattern.
Category
Antique 1880s American Federal Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Linen
42 Hand Sewn Stars on An Antique American Flag ca 1889-1890
Located in York County, PA
The 42 star flag is interesting from a historical perspective, both because 42 was never an official star count, and because 42 star flags were only produced for about 8 months.
Category
Antique Late 19th Century American Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool
Price Upon Request
42 Stars in a Whimsical Medallion Configuration, ca 1889-1890
Located in York County, PA
Flag production was a competitive industry and no one wanted to be making 38 star flags, for example, when their competitors were making 42’s and there were 42 states.
Category
Antique 1890s North American Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
Price Upon Request
Exceptional American Flag, 38 Stars in 3 Sizes in a Fantastic, Unusual Medallion
Located in York County, PA
It is of interest to note that there is also a 42 star variety of commercially printed flag, closely related to one of the three 38 star varieties described above, that features 4 sm...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century North American Political and Patriotic Memorab...
Materials
Silk
