47 Star U.S. Flag - conversion from a 45 star flag, 1912.
This large silk flag is interesting for several reasons: There are 47 stars, the red stripes are a dark red, which is an unusual color in US flags (See ZFC0692, the Dodge Flag and ZFC0680 flags for comparison). Furthermore, the flag was originally manufactured as a 45-star flag, official from 1896 to 1908, and then converted by the addition of two more stars and the silk fabric. The style of manufacturer and finishing details suggest that it was likely made outside the United States.

Officially, 47-star US flags never existed. Although New Mexico became the 47th state on the 6th of January 1912, the 4th of July has always been the official day to instate the new star count. However, Arizona was also acceded before the 4th of July, and as the 48th state, Independence Day celebrations recognized the 48-star flag as the official one.

For a new star count to be flown on the 4th of July, flag manufacturers naturally have to make and distribute their product some time beforehand. But there have been instances when a state was added so close to the 4th of July that manufacturers' best efforts were made obsolete. But since Arizona gained statehood on 14 February (1912), long before July and only six weeks after New Mexico's accession, there were seemingly fewer inventory issues by summer.

The 47-star flag is therefore quite rare, but not completely unique. There are known to be a few 47-star Flags around: The Tularosa Basin Historical Society Museum has such a flag, with staggered rows of 8, 8, 8, 8, 8, and 7 stars. The Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe has a 47-star flag and the Fort McHenry Monument and Historic Shrine apparently also has such a flag. For other 47-star United States flags also see ZFC0092, ZFC0600 and ZFC2282.

Provenance: Acquired in 2005 at auction, Cowan's Auctions, Inc, Cincinnati, Ohio.

ZFC Significant Flag

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