An American World War I son-in-service banner, 1918

Being a vertical hanging satin banner of two blue machine-sewn stars on a white center rectangle surrounded by a field of red; the upper blue star is oversewn with a yellow star, and the banner hangs from a period brass rod.

The American Flag Collection of Thomas S. Connelly, Sotheby's May 23, 2002, sale 7801, lot 156.

In good condition, with a small hole beneath bottom proper left point of blue star.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This banner was probably hung in an educational institution or large business, and indicated that 60 local soldiers had gone overseas with the American Expeditionary Forces.  The number under the blue star denotes that 58 returned safely; the number under the gold star, that 2 were killed in action.

Son-in-Service banners were given by the U.S. Government to the mothers of soldiers for display purposes.  This practice continued with Gold Star Mothers in World War II.