Civil War Era regulation regimental flags quite rare outside of institutions and this is one of few that have ever come to auction. Regulation flag measures just over 6' square at about 71" x 74" including the 2-1/4" silk fringe and blue silk sleeve hoist. The state seal and ribbon with regimental markings is about 46" high and 37" across. The state seal of New Jersey is beautifully painted on both sides by a Philadelphia contractor Evans & Hassall. The painter of this state seal was very gifted, not a typical sign painter seen on so many painted flags, the details of Liberty holding "Liberty Cap" on a pole and Ceres, Roman Goddess symbolizing abundance, holding her bountiful cornucopia, very fine details to faces and garments. The state seal of horse head over shield with plows and the state motto "LIBERTY & PROSPERITY" are also finely detailed and highlighted. At least a dozen other regimental flags in the New Jersey State and New Jersey National Guard Militia Museum were of the same contractor early to late war. The 1st New Jersey Militia was formed in Trenton prior to Lee's invasion into Pennsylvania, June 17, 1863, as a 30-day regiment. The unit never left the state. Most men went on to other units once Lee was defeated at Gettysburg and additional troops were needed to protect the state as the threat was now gone. Organization of 1st Veteran Militia is not found in wartime records and unit probably saw no wartime service and only mention is in 1861 in Adjutant General's report which praised the unit "discipline and training were first rate". This is among the best preserved silk regulation Civil War era regimental colors extant. SIZE: PROVENANCE: Ex-William Kazar Collection of New Jersey Militaria. CONDITION: Blue silk is mostly intact as can be seen in photos, including all fringe. Hoist is torn at edge, but appears intact. As can be seen, there's large area of light staining on one side of state seal. Paint is 95% intact with numerous cracks and reductions as can be seen in photographs. The flag has old conservation and sewn to a piece of blue polished cotton backing. 51642-1 JS (20,000-30,000)