The Flag Collectors Guide

Although not as widely publicised as other forms of collecting (stamps and coins are examples), collecting flags is a hobby that is steadily growing in popularity.   The study of flags is known as vexillology and can be a challenging hobby to enjoy. 

Now collectors may buy flags online . Flags from around the world can be found, so that adding to ones collection can be easily accomplished. These may be flags in any size, from small to very large.

The following is a list of some of the terminology used regarding flags. 

• Staff: also known as the flag pole or flagstaff.  The term flagstaff is preferred over flagpole.  
• Hoist: is the flag’s edge closest to the staff.  Also this is the vertical width in regards to a flag.  
• Fly: this is the flag edge farthest from the staff and sometimes means the horizontal length of the flag.  
• Length: the measure of a flag from left side to right.  
• Width: the measure of a flag top to bottom or down the side which is parallel to its staff.  
• Field: the colour of the flags background.  
• Charge: refers to any design, emblem, symbol, or figure that appears on the flag.  
• Badge: refers to a coat of arms, heraldic symbol, or shield displayed on a flag.  
• Fimbriation:  is an edging or border separating two different colours.  
• Canton: is a quarter of a flag, any quarter but normally upper left hoist area. The canton on a US flag would be the field of stars.  
• Saltire: is depicted by a cross which goes from the centre out to the four corners of a flag.  Scotland’s flag is an example of a saltire as the St. Andrew’s cross covers it.  

Flags differ from banners and pennants due to the fact they drape downward in a relaxed fashion unless there is enough wind to unfurl them.  Pennants and banners hang down straight from their horizontal mount, allowing them to constantly display whatever is adorned on them.

Flags are available on the internet from virtually every country that recognises one.  The Union Jack, as well as the Irish flag, Scotland, Welsh flag, the Lion Rampant Scottish and many others representing the United Kingdom are all to be found and added to a collection.

Collectors may buy flags online from every corner of the world including, an Australian flag, flags from China, Africa, or India are all available.  How about a Jolly Roger or pirate flag?  That infamous skull and crossbones is a very popular addition to any vexillologists collection.

Whatever the occasion, there may well be a flag designed to honour it.  Halloween, Christmas, Birthday, New Year flags are all available and considered welcome additions to most any collection.  Perhaps you are a Bob Marley fan seeking a flag representing him?  There is one for you.  Or how about Harley Davidson motorcycles?  There is one representing them as well. 

The 2010 World Cup is coming up soon, so collectors don’t want to miss out on obtaining flags representing that great series of events.  There are flags from every participating country for the 2010 soccer cup competition.  So why not buy flags online and add to your collection (or start one now).

Editor in Chief