Williamson Auction
Live Auction

Cold Weather. Hot Lots.

Thu, Jan 29, 2026 12:00PM EST
Lot 189

Operation Sail 1976 Maritime Photograph Collection – July 4 Bicentennial Tall Ships

Estimate: $200 - $400

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$150 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$4,000 $500
$15,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000

Offered is a collection of five vintage black-and-white photographic prints documenting Operation Sail (OpSail), the historic gathering of international tall ships held in celebration of the United States Bicentennial on July 4, 1976. These photographs capture iconic maritime scenes featuring tall ships, harbor views, and naval vessels associated with the Bicentennial festivities.

Each photograph is mounted on original cardstock, with handwritten annotations on the versos identifying subjects and dates, consistent with period documentation or photographer’s notes. The images reflect the large-scale international maritime presence that defined Operation Sail, one of the most significant nautical events of the 20th century.

This group offers strong historical, documentary, and decorative appeal, ideal for collectors of Bicentennial memorabilia, maritime history, nautical photography, or American historical events. The photographs may be displayed individually or as a cohesive set commemorating this landmark celebration.


Dimensions

 

H: 11 W: 14

operation sail, opsail 1976, bicentennial photographs, tall ships, maritime photography, nautical history, july 4 1976, vintage photographs, harbor scenes, sailing vessels


Condition Report

Overall good vintage condition consistent with age. Light surface wear, minor edge wear, and gentle toning visible on mounts. Handwritten inscriptions present on versos. No major tears or losses observed. Please refer to images for full condition details.

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Shipping

For shipping assistance, we recommend contacting the following trusted professionals:

UPS Store: Phone 954-963-7134 Email store0288@theupsstore.com website

theupsstore.com/0288

Alternatively, we can provide additional recommendations for third-party shipping

services. All items will be shipped within 10 business days after payment has cleared.

Items must be picked up within 10 business days following the auction. Items not

collected within this timeframe will be placed in storage at a fee of $10.00 per item per day.