Virginia State Flags

Virginia Flag Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Material for the Old Dominion

Hoisting the "Virtus" banner requires a material that can handle Virginia's diverse terrain—from the Piedmont to the Tidewater. Match your region to our 100% American-made fabrics:

• For Coastal & High-Wind Regions: We recommend our 2-Ply Tough-Ply Polyester Virginia Flags. This is our "Chesapeake-Grade" fabric, designed specifically for Newport News, Portsmouth, and Roanoke. The 2-ply construction is vital for Virginia flags because the detailed central seal adds weight; this fabric provides the strength to resist tearing during coastal "Nor'easters."

• For Brilliant Color & Daily Display: Our Heavy-Duty Nylon Virginia Flags are the #1 choice for homes in Charlottesville, Lynchburg, and Leesburg. These flags are vapor-jetted with specialized UV-inhibitors to protect the "Deep Blue" field from sun-bleaching, ensuring the intricate "Sic Semper Tyrannis" motto remains legible year-round.

• The Tidmore Standard: Every Virginia flag we sell is 100% Made in the USA, FMAA-certified, and strictly follows the Code of Virginia § 1-506. We ensure the seal is rendered "to show on both sides alike" with the official wreath of Virginia Creeper.

If you’re not sure whether nylon or polyester is right for your display, check out our guide to the best flag materials for Virginia weather to match your material to your wind, sun, and weather conditions.

What size Virginia State Flag should I buy?

While our Heavy-Duty Nylon is the standard for color, and our 2-Ply Polyester is built for Coastal winds, the scale of your flag is vital. Per Virginia Code § 1-507, the Governor regulates the size for public buildings, but for residential use, the 3x5ft remains the gold standard. Before you order, see our Virginia State Flag Size Guide to learn why a 20ft residential pole typically requires a 3x5ft flag, whereas a 25ft pole—common for Commonwealth offices and historic estates—is better suited for a 4x6ft design.

The Meaning of the Virginia Flag: Virtue over Tyranny

Adopted in 1861 and standardized in 1950, the Virginia flag is a masterpiece of Roman-inspired symbolism. At Tidmore Flags, we honor the "Mother of States" by adhering to these official symbolic requirements:

• Virtus (Virtue): The central figure represents the genius of the Commonwealth. Dressed as an Amazon, she rests on her spear with her sword (a parazonium) sheathed—symbolizing a battle already won.

• The Defeated Tyrant: Lying prostrate beneath Virtus's foot, Tyranny represents the overthrow of the British monarchy. His fallen crown, broken chain (freedom from trade restrictions), and useless whip (relief from punishment) are essential details we never overlook.

• The Motto: The Latin phrase "Sic Semper Tyrannis" ("Thus Always to Tyrants") is emblazoned on a white scroll below the figures.

• The Virginia Creeper: The circular seal is framed by a wreath of Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), added to the design in 1931.

• Technical Accuracy: Virginia is famously the only state flag to depict nudity (the bared breast of Virtus as per Roman tradition). At Tidmore Flags, we maintain the historical and legal integrity of the Great Seal as defined in Code § 1-500.