.jpg)
Paul Fraser Collectibles -
A unique collection of rare US naval flags, including several from the historic USS Constitution, is coming to auction in Philadelphia on April 30.
The Dietrich Collection contains 11 flags from the famous ship, which have never been available on the open market before.
Three United States Navy ensigns will feature. A rare 31-star, 16 foot wide ensign, flown from the Constitution circa 1851, has a high estimate of $250,000, a valuation matched by a circa 1837 Commodore's Broad Pennant from the ship.
A rare circa 1846 28-star variant has a $200,000 valuation, the same figure as that put forward for a 19-star offering from 1816.
The USS Constitution was launched in 1797, and is the oldest commissioned naval vessel. Known as "Old Ironsides", she last sailed on her 200th birthday in 1997, and currently resides in her hometown of Boston.
"These flags are actual artefacts of 'Old Ironsides', flown during many pivotal moments in the nation's as well as the world's history," said the auction house's chairman Samuel M Freeman.
Several foreign naval ensigns from the Constitution will also feature, including English and Imperial Brazilian specimens, both from the first half of the 19th century and both carrying high estimates of $50,000.
An extremely rare 13-star US naval colour from the late 18th and early 19th century is the oldest flag in the auction.
Posted via http://maritime-news.posterous.com Maritime-News posterous
No comments:
Post a Comment