Description:

United States Bicentennial
Philadelphia, PA & Washington, DC, ca. 1975-1976
Pair of U.S. Bicentennial Relics: Independence Hall Wood & Flown Flag!
Relics

A pair of two important relics dating from the United States' Bicentennial celebration in the mid-1970s, consisting of an authentic wood chip from an original beam at Philadelphia's Independence Hall [ca. 1732-1753] and an American flag flown over the Capitol building in September 1975. Ranging in size from 5" x 6" x 1" and 10" x 12" x 1.5". Please see below for further information on contents.

The lot includes:

1.) Limited edition display housing a 1" x .5" wood chip cut from an original cedar beam of Philadelphia's Independence Hall, numbered 10023 out of an unspecified edition. Housed in a blue collector's case with identification plaque and gold facsimile signatures of select Declaration of Independence signers printed on the interior, measuring 5" x 6" x 1" overall. Accompanied by a related pamphlet and certificate from Burnes of Boston, who released the edition during the bicentennial year of 1976.

2.) A U.S. flag made of 100% cotton bunting with embroidered stars, measuring 3' x 5' overall. Areas of scattered soiling and minor loose threads, else near fine. The flag is housed in an official cardboard box labeled with the name "Downing," corresponding to its intended recipient, Virginia Congressman Thomas N. Downing. Some corner damage and tearing, measuring 10" x 12" x 1.5". Accompanied by a typed letter signed from George M. White, Architect of the Capitol, and addressed to Congressman Downing. Reading: "This is to certify that the accompanying flag was flown over the United States Capitol on September 25, 1975."

Thomas Nelms Downing (1919-2001) was a lawyer and politician who served nine terms as a Democratic Congressman from Virginia's 1st congressional district from 1959 to 1977. He was most notable for his role as chairman of the House Select Committee on Assassinations during his time in Congress.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 10" x 12" x 1.5" (largest)
  • Medium: Relics

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October 8, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000