Rare & Unique - U.S. Navy Semaphore Signal Flags

RARE & UNIQUE HISTORIC MILITARY ARTICLE - US NAVY Semaphore Signal Flags
Circa WWI No makers mark present.

A Rare Historical Set of Two United States Navy Semaphore Signal Flags - Set of two square, red and yellow flags on wooden handles, divided diagonally. Flags are of a fine linen or cotton. One measures approximately 14" square, with the other measuring a bit smaller at approx 12 inches by 13.5 inches.

The Semaphore flag signaling system is a system even in these days of radio and satellite communications is used by the US Navy. Research further tells us that the U.S. Navy uses the international alphabet flags, numeral pennants, numeral flags, and special flags and pennants for visual signaling. These signal flags are used to communicate while maintaining radio silence. Navy Signalmen transmit messages by hoisting a flag or a series of flags on a halyard or by hand-signaling. Each side of the ship has halyards and a "flag bag", containing a full set of signal flags. Signals unique to the Navy are used when communicating with other U.S. Navy or allied forces. When communicating with all other vessels, the International Code of Signals is used. The code/answer pennant precedes all signals in international code.

Navy assigned identifying name of this particular flag is "Oscar" The Navy and International meaning is "Man Overboard".

The condition of these two flags is very good, based on their presented time in service. Colors are a rich gold-yellow and red. There are some small imperfections such as wrinkles, few tiny holes, loose threads, but to say these are not an excellent addition to any military maritime collection would be incorrect. They would be a fantastic and unique addition to anyone's nautical or historical regal decor. One of the wood doles measures a bit smaller than the other (photo 9).

SOLD

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