U.S.A Flag Flown on HOWARD HUGHES Record Setting Around the World Flight CAG

Title: Historic U.S. Flag Flown by Howard Hughes During His 1938 Around-the-World Flight – CAG Certified with Provenance Packet

Description:
Presented here is an extraordinary piece of American and aviation history: an original 48-star U.S. flag flown aboard Howard Hughes’ Lockheed 14 Super Electra during his legendary record-setting around-the-world flight from July 10–14, 1938. The flag measures approximately 11" x 17", displays bold red, white, and blue coloration, and remains in excellent condition. It is CAG certified (Collectibles Authentication Guaranty) and professionally encapsulated in a display holder that features a descriptive label with Hughes' portrait and an image of the aircraft.

This artifact is further distinguished by its inclusion of an original provenance packet, which provides in-depth documentation of the flag’s origin, chain of custody, and historical significance. This is the same provenance packet reviewed and relied upon by CAG in the encapsulation and certification process, offering authoritative support to the authenticity and historical importance of the piece.

Historical Context:
In July 1938, Howard Hughes, already a celebrated aviator, industrialist, and film producer, set out to push the limits of aviation by completing a record-breaking circumnavigation of the globe. Piloting a modified Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra, Hughes and his crew launched from Floyd Bennett Field, New York, on July 10, stopping in Paris, Moscow, Omsk, Yakutsk, Fairbanks, and Minneapolis, before returning to New York on July 14, completing the journey in just 3 days, 19 hours, and 17 minutes—shattering previous records.

The flight spanned over 14,800 miles at an average speed of 206 mph, showcasing not only Hughes’ daring and precision, but also the rapidly advancing capabilities of modern aviation. More than just a technical triumph, the flight served as a diplomatic success as well, signaling growing American air power and strengthening U.S.-Soviet relations at a critical pre-WWII moment.

Crowds greeted Hughes at every stop, and upon his return he was welcomed as a national hero. The mission cemented his legacy as one of the leading figures in aviation history and demonstrated the potential of long-distance, high-speed global flight.

Authentication & Documentation:

• Artifact: Original U.S. 48-star flag

• Flown By: Howard Hughes during his July 10–14, 1938, around-the-world flight

• Aircraft: Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra

• Certification: Encapsulated and authenticated by CAG (Collectibles Authentication Guaranty)

• Provenance: Accompanied by the original provenance packet used by CAG for encapsulation, detailing the flag’s full history and chain of custody

• Presentation: Securely housed in a professional display holder featuring CAG label with Hughes' image and aircraft

• Condition: Bright colors, minimal wear, excellent preservation

Closing Appeal:
This CAG-certified flown flag is a rare and highly significant relic from one of the most celebrated achievements in aviation history. Supported by an authoritative provenance packet—the same documentation used for professional encapsulation—this flag connects directly to Howard Hughes’ groundbreaking 1938 flight, a feat that captured the world’s imagination. A centerpiece for collectors of early aviation, exploration, and Americana, it embodies the spirit of innovation and courage that defined an era.