The "Appeal to Heaven" flag, a powerful symbol of colonial resistance and revolutionary spirit, holds a significant place in American history. Its evocative imagery and the story behind its creation continue to resonate with collectors and history enthusiasts alike. Finding an "Appeal to Heaven" flag for sale requires careful consideration, as authentic historical examples are rare and highly valuable. This guide will help you navigate the market and understand what to look for when seeking this significant piece of American history.
What is an Appeal to Heaven Flag?
The "Appeal to Heaven" flag, also known as the "Don't Tread on Me" flag, features a coiled rattlesnake with the motto "Don't Tread on Me" beneath it. It's a powerful visual metaphor, representing the colonists' determination to defend their liberty and warn against oppression. While often associated with the Gadsden flag, the "Appeal to Heaven" flag predates it and holds a unique historical context. The coiled rattlesnake, a symbol common to the time, represented a warning to potential aggressors, emphasizing the colonists' willingness to defend themselves if provoked. The phrase "Appeal to Heaven" often appears alongside the image, signifying their reliance on divine justice in their struggle for independence.
Where Can I Find an Appeal to Heaven Flag for Sale?
Finding an authentic historical "Appeal to Heaven" flag for sale is exceedingly difficult. These flags are rare artifacts, mostly residing in private collections or museums. However, you can find reproductions and interpretations of the flag at various online and physical retailers. When searching, be cautious of misleading descriptions and inflated prices. Reputable antique shops specializing in American history or online marketplaces dedicated to historical artifacts are good places to start. Always exercise due diligence and verify the authenticity of any flag before purchasing, as many reproductions exist.
What to Look For When Buying an Appeal to Heaven Flag:
- Authenticity: If buying a purportedly historical flag, demand verifiable provenance and expert authentication. A reputable appraisal could save you from a costly mistake.
- Condition: The age and condition of a historical flag significantly impact its value. Look for signs of age, wear, and tear. The material, stitching, and colors can indicate age and authenticity.
- Materials: Historically, these flags were often made from wool or linen.
- Variations: Be aware that there were variations in design and wording across different versions of the "Appeal to Heaven" flag.
Are There Different Versions of the Appeal to Heaven Flag?
Yes, there were variations in the design and wording of the "Appeal to Heaven" flag. Some variations might include different placements of the rattlesnake and motto or slightly altered wording. These variations reflect the decentralized nature of the colonial resistance movement and the differing interpretations of the symbol's meaning. The most well-known variation features the rattlesnake and the motto "Don't Tread on Me," which is often mistakenly referred to as the original "Appeal to Heaven" flag.
What is the Difference Between the Appeal to Heaven Flag and the Gadsden Flag?
While both feature a rattlesnake and relate to the American Revolutionary period, the Gadsden flag uses the motto "Don't Tread on Me" only. The "Appeal to Heaven" flag's original design included both the rattlesnake and the phrase "Appeal to Heaven," emphasizing a reliance on divine justice in their fight for independence. The Gadsden flag, while inspired by similar sentiment, became more widely known and adopted as a symbol of liberty and defiance. The key difference lies in the inclusion of the "Appeal to Heaven" phrase in the original design.
How Much Does an Appeal to Heaven Flag Cost?
The price of an "Appeal to Heaven" flag varies dramatically depending on several factors: authenticity, condition, age, and historical significance. Reproductions can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred. Authentic historical examples, if ever available for sale, would command significantly higher prices, potentially reaching tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on their provenance and condition.
Finding an "Appeal to Heaven" flag for sale, especially an authentic historical example, requires patience, careful research, and a discerning eye. Remember to prioritize authenticity and thorough vetting before making a purchase. Whether you're seeking a historical artifact or a reproduction, the "Appeal to Heaven" flag continues to symbolize a powerful moment in American history.
