David Copperfield Blends Fact and Fiction to 'Find' the Flag's Missing 15th Star

In a one-of-a-kind specially created illusion, David Copperfield attempted to “find the missing 15th star" on the Star-Spangled Banner.

This illusion was performed during an event on Flag Day at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.

The Star-Spangled Banner flew above Ft. McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. Francis Scott Key saw the enormous flag flying over the fort and was inspired to write the song that became the national anthem. he flag remained with the family of the commander of Fort McHenry, Lt. Col. George Armistead, after the battle. Family members permitted “souveniring,” or the snipping of small pieces from the flag. One star was cut out “for some official person” but who that person was is unknown to historians. The family loaned the Star-Spangled Banner to the Smithsonian in 1907 and gifted it in 1912 to be shared with the nation.

“The Star-Spangled Banner is one of our nation’s most treasured objects, a lasting symbol of this country’s promise,” Hartig said. “The Smithsonian and Copperfield partnership allows us to spark the public’s imagination and capture their curiosity to learn more about our flag."

[dpramana]

You're 64...and still unbelievable... Salute & respect...🙏🙏🙏
I still have your picture cover on magazine...and some of clipping picture from any Indonesian newspaper from 1991.

[thesjtodd]

Fantastic to see David Copperfield performing again! Captivating and inspiring.

[LuiEntertainment]

Is and always will be the Master, not just in the Art of Magic, but in storytelling and creating art that is entertaining, captivating, and MEANINGFUL. Amazing tribute to our history.

[furrukhjamal]

There is no human being as good as him in story telling

[sloanemactire]

When I was a kid, David Copperfield was one of my heroes. I loved his specials, making objects appear and disappear. Sadly, I was in the museum that day but couldn't get a chance to see him perform - I'm glad the museum posted the video online.

[JorgeSaenz]

I love the way David Copperfield is not only the best magician, but also an amazing storyteller. He always has a unique way to draw you deeper into the magic he is about to perform. Bravo 👏🏼

[sunckc]

He is always the greatest from my childhood days up till now.

[Kedawan]

David’s genius is not in spectacular magic in a mechanical sense. Rather, it’s in the ability to take something that’s been done before and make it so much MORE than a guy appearing in an empty, floating box.

He made you care about the cardboard box. And the courier. And the flag. You felt something. THAT is magic.

[ryangel]

I had goosebumps! In a nice way. 😅
I always love seeing David Copperfield perform. He's an artist, a master magician, a legend. Hope to see more brand new grand illusions in the coming years. Salute! 😍👏👏👏

[duquettebeats]

The greatest show man story teller illusionist period.

[egolsyahban]

The trick was just one, but the emotional and message are million.
Thanks David for making my childhood were entertaining. You and Michael Ammar are my inspiration, the legend of the legend in magician world. Peace from Indonesia...

[Doug]

I grew up watching David Copperfield and now I am a rapping sleight of hand comedy magician!

[mistermindahenziandalasnus]

The illusion is incredible but the storytelling is Magic.

[marcelstephens]

David Copperfields talent is proof of Gods existence ..

[darioshame]

Legit the only magician to make me cry and this was no exception ❤️

[redbeard]

He may be older and his stuff a little corny but he’s really a genius. And what he’s done to preserve magic and illusions is important.

[hdalank]

You Still the Legend of all the time :)

[DavidDellman]

another reason why David is the best of all time

[crixxxxxxxxx]

How about we just go back in time before the flag was shredded up for souvenirs?

[gamerhalim]

It’s been long time, last I seen David Copperfield in tv (Indonesia 🇮🇩)