Norwegian Union Merchant flag of 1818

The ensign was introduced on 26. October 1818 for use in distant waters, that is beyond Cape Finisterre in North-West Spain, as an alternative to the standard Swedish civil ensign which could also be used by Norwegian ships if the wished (Norway paid the Swedish government a considerable amount to get this privilege). In closer waters, the saltire flag could be used as an alternative to the Norwegian civil ensign of 1814 ("The lion flag").

By Royal resolution of 17. July 1821 the saltire flag was ordered as the only Norwegian and Swedish civil ensign in distant waters, that is south of beyond Cape Finisterre.

It was abolished in 1844 when the new system of union marked national Norwegian and Swedish flags was introduced.
Jan Oskar Engene, 20 December 1999