Union blanket opinions

[mdk220]

hello all,
I have been looking to get a union blanket and would like opinions on this one.
Specs
51 x 80 3/4 in
wool blanket (uneven edge, a few areas with hand-stitched repairs)
three light blue stripes
Hand-embroidered outlined "US" at center.
Edges unbound.

Thx for your help in advance! mike

 

[captaindrew]

It doesn't look like any I've seen before, certainly not with those stripes. The material doesn't look quite right and the stitched US doesn't look quite right to me. But I don't claim to be an expert. @Package4 would be my go to on this.

 

[JOHN42768]

The U & S are totally different heights

 

[1867crete]

The U & S are totally different heights

Yes the US was definitely done after the fact. It kinda reminds me of those old Swiss and East German military blankets that Sportsmen Guide was selling in the 1990's? But I'm no expert!!

 

[Package4]

No, no, no & no, most likely an early reenactment piece, the edges are bound as is evidenced by the first picture, just unraveling in most areas. Blankets are very tough to determine age and unless buying from a reputable dealer who has a return policy, it is a risky proposition.

You really need to touch and feel an ACW blanket, it should be very stiff and extremely rough in texture. Wool loses its lanolin over time.

 

[mdk220]

thx all for the info!
this blanket comes from Bruce B. Hermann collection

 

[Package4]

thx all for the info!
this blanket comes from Bruce B. Hermann collection

Even the most advanced collectors make mistakes; the auction house selling it does not even put a value of an issue blanket. Without provenance, it is just an old blanket with the improper US.

I always look at every item that I am interested in negatively and then try to prove each negative facet wrong, if I can, this helps me make my buying decision. Just do not make up a story, in your mind, why something could be correct. Example in this case, maybe the soldier brought a blanket from home and decided to darn his own US.