Indianapolis Motor Speedway Pennants

Since the Indianapolis Motor Speedway opened in 1909, it is believed that pennants were sold* and still are to this day. There are two main categories of pennants - dated and undated with some sub-categories. Early pennants are generally made of felt while those from the mid-late 1950’s and later are generally made of a synthetic felt type material. IMS pennants are measured from the end of the pennant (not the tassels as some pennants don’t have tassels) to the tip and have been found as long as just over 3’ to as short as 3” with various sizes in-between.

The earliest known dated Indianapolis 500 pennant is the 1911 below.

Although undated, the Speedway owned pennant below is believed to also be from 1911.

The 1912 pennant below has similarities to the 1911 above.

Although undated, the pennant above uses the same style of car which indicates it is from the same time period.

As to values on pennants, pre-1930 pennants in excellent condition with no damage, especially those that are dated, will command a premium. Next would be post-1930 to 1950 with the same condition parameters as above and with dated more so than undated. Pennants found with a date after 1950 to 1980 are the exception as most are undated so they will command a bit of a premium. Post-1980 non-felt dated pennants come next with undated last.

* This information is to the best of our knowledge. If anyone has more information, please contact: NI500CC@NI500CC.COM