State flag to be used on state ships and at government buildings that did not fly the military ensign. Prior to 1897, used by private ships serving the Swedish Royal mail.
White saltire on red in the upper hoist corner. The canton in red and white represented Norway. The ensign was introduced on October 26, 1818, for use in "distant waters", i.e. 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 they wished. By Royal resolution of July 17, 1821, the saltire flag was ordered as the only Norwegian and Swedish civil ensign in "distant waters".