Blog #12: What is the origin of the ball on top of flagpoles? Is it true that there is something stored in the ball?

-Many myths circle around about what exactly is on the inside of the golden ball on top of most flagpoles. Most of them involve contents such as:

• Pennies
• A bullet
• Matches
• A razor

-Some people say there is a penny in the ball so that America will never be without funds, or a bullet for defending the nation. While interesting stories, they’re mostly untrue. The reason for the ball on top of most flagpole is to prevent the flag from getting tangled on top of the pole. Many flagpoles before wide usage of the ball had elaborate ornaments, in areas with high wind the flag would get tangled on the ornament. Thank you for your question! If you have a question about flags and flag etiquette email me at [email protected] and perhaps your question will be featured!