Where exactly did the "First Navy Jack" (Don't tread on me) flag fly on the Constitution?

Commodore...

Be careful regarding the "First Jack" with the "Don't Tread On Me" motto... It is unlikely that it was in use during the War of 1812 years.

 It was flying recently on Old Ironsides because of a directive from the Navy secretary that all active navy ships (including the still-commissioned Constitution) fly it during the war on terrorism.

Interestingly, researchers are not even sure that flag ever existed!  It seems our current version dates to the 1880's when apparently an old woodcut was misinterpreted and published in a naval history book... You can google it easily enough and find plenty of info...

Sir(s)

Several hours after posting my question I encountered such information regarding the post 9-11 First Navy Jack tradition. Also, I did come across the skeptical nature of it's origins, but the original Gadesen flag was real, no?

And now I understand the traditional blue field/white stars Jack flag. On the bow at anchor, on the mast top at sea. As long as I can portray that as a swallowtail pennant... I should be ok.

Correct?

Thanks!

Sirs,

I am convinced now the the First Navy Jack will not fly on my vessel. Thank you all for pointing this out.

But I wonder.... at anytime would the Gadsden Flag have ever been flown on the Constitution?

And if so... which variation?