An 1844 Polk and Dallas presidential campaign banner has sold for $185,000 at Heritage Auctions.

The lot, described as "simply the finest political campaign banner in collectors' hands", led a sale of political memorabilia on June 27.

Polk & Dallas won the 1844 US presidential election

Polk, who was elected in 1845, is one of the lesser known American presidents. He is generally looked upon favourably by historians.

The banner is extremely rare and displays strong portraits of the two men.

Heritage explains: "In his definitive reference work Threads of History, Herb Collins pictured only four Polk political textiles: two flags, a quilt, and this banner. By way of contrast he lists no less than thirty-one examples for Polk's opponent, Henry Clay�Ǫ

"As were all banners of this type, it was handpainted, and the colors are vivid and vibrant. The condition is truly remarkable as well, as good as any political banner of this era we have ever encountered.

"It is also very stable, and not at risk for serious deterioration (unlike the majority of banners of this era, especially those made from silk, which present serious conservation challenges)."

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