Its sale is some months away, but already excitement is building ahead of the auction of what may be the last battle flag from the American revolution in private ownership.
The 18th century silk battle flag was carried by the Continental Army's Eighth Virginia Regiment under the guidance of Colonel Peter Muhlenberg.
Despite its salmon-red colour having faded to gold, the intact flag is expected to sell extremely well.
 The regiment was led by Muhlenberg, the fighting clergyman |
It will appear at the November 14 auction with a $600,000 high estimate, but could achieve considerably more, considering its rarity and the soaring prices for items connected with the American revolutionary war - George Washington's personal copy of the Acts of Congress is expected to make $2-3m at Christie's on June 22.
Samuel M "Beau" Freeman II, the auction house's chairman, explains the great importance of the piece. "Revolutionary battle flags are rare and those in private hands are almost unknown or only fragments have survived-this is an extraordinary discovery," he said.
"Muhlenberg is a legendary hero of the Continental Army. This flag… may be the last remaining battle flag in private hands."
Muhlenberg was a clergyman by trade, and famously removed his smock to reveal a military uniform as he read a rousing sermon on January 21, 1776, as the country became embroiled in war.
The flag has remained in the Muhlenberg family for more than 200 years, and as such it will be the first time it has appeared at auction.
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