Federal era American banner realises $21,000 at Heritage Auctions

A patriotic American banner thought to date to the federal era (1789-1801) was among the highlights at Heritage Auctions on November 8, achieving $20,625.

The silk embroidered, double sided lot crossed the block as part of a sale of political memorabilia and Americana in Dallas.

federal flag American
The double-sided flag is made from silk

It depicts the American eagle above text that reads "Independence, The Reward of Wisdom, Fortitude & Perseverance."

A famous letter sent from patriot Samuel Adams to his cousin John Adams in 1776 inspired the text.

The full quote reads: "May God give us Wisdom Fortitude Perseverance and every other Virtue necessary for us to maintain that Independence which we have asserted."

Campaign flags produced during America's formative years often perform well at auction. Earlier this year a flag made for Abraham Lincoln's presidential campaign realised $20,000 at Heritage.

We have these genuine fragments of wallpaper from Lincoln's home in Springfield.

A flag from Franklin D Roosevelt's presidential yacht was another highlight, achieving $10,000.

FDR spent a lot of time on the boat, so much so that it became known as "the floating White House".

He used it primarily for fishing trips, as well as a means of travelling between engagements.

He went on to present the flag to its captain, Joe Turner, in recognition of his long service.

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