Hand-sewn light wool blend 69" on hoist, 90" on fly, 4-1/2" cotton stars. Well known flag historian, Steven Hill, wrote letter of authenticity which accompanies this flag and stated "While there is no concrete evidence to link this flag to the 10th NH besides the inked ID on one of the white stripes at the heading of the flag, there is no reason to doubt its authenticity as a flag of the period, nor that it was designed and made to be used as a battle-flag. In size and shape it is very close to Army regulations and has a number of pole ties along the leading edge - it was clearly made to be attached to a staff and carried on parade or in battle, not flown from a halyard on a flagpole...I have no doubt that this flag is exactly what it purports to be, an authentic relic of the American Civil War, a bunting flag used as a regimental or company color, most likely by the 10th NH Infantry". 35th star commemorates West Virginia officially on July 4, 1863, but other handmade flags are known in early 1863 as West Virginia was attempting statehood much earlier and was highly anticipated before Lincoln's proclamation June 20, 1863. This flag has indeed seen some use and has some contemporary repairs seen from the period for used flags for continued use. Aesthetically, flag is pleasing and presents well. SIZE: CONDITION: Good overall. Blue dye has faded, red is still strong, several large stains and numerous small holes and reductions that give the flag great character. 52595-1 JS (6,000-8,000)