World’s Columbian Exposition

On October 21, 1892, crowds gathered in Chicago to dedicate the fairgrounds for the World’s Columbian Exposition, marking the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. The dedication ceremony celebrated both the spirit of discovery and America’s growing industrial and cultural power. Though the fair itself would not open until May 1893, the event served as a tribute to four centuries of exploration and achievement, linking the daring of Columbus’s voyage to the bold ambitions of a modern America.

The dedication festivities stretched over several days, featuring parades, patriotic music, and speeches. Flags waved and bands played as thousands of spectators, dignitaries, and schoolchildren participated in ceremonies that blended civic pride with national purpose. The event was as much a declaration of faith in Chicago’s future as it was a commemoration of the past—an exuberant promise that the forthcoming fair would embody the optimism, creativity, and determination of a new American century.

To celebrate the exposition, the Post Office Department issued a groundbreaking series of stamps known as the Columbian Exposition Issue. Released in 1893, these 16 stamps became the first commemorative stamps ever issued by the United States, marking a turning point in American philately. The series depicted scenes from Columbus’s voyages and discoveries, and ranged in denomination from 1¢ to $5. Each was intricately engraved, transforming moments of history into miniature works of art that celebrated both the Age of Exploration and the nation’s own progress.

Collectors eagerly sought the Columbian stamps, which quickly became prized mementos of the fair. While the higher denominations were expensive for their time—$5 was a considerable sum in 1893—their beauty and historical significance ensured their lasting appeal. Today, the Columbians stand as one of the most famous and beloved issues in US philatelic history, a lasting tribute to the grand vision and enduring legacy of the World’s Columbian Exposition.

The Broken Hat Columbian

During the printing of the 2¢ Columbian (Landing of Columbus), there was a break in the printing press transfer roll. The break produced the popular “Broken Hat” Columbian stamp. See the nick in the man’s hat below? Some nicks are wider than others because the break in the plate widened gradually.

Columbian Special Delivery Stamp

The US #E3 Special Delivery stamp was not issued for the expo, but is often still considered part of the Columbian Series. When the Columbian stamps were issued in January 1893, the 1¢ stamp (#230) was printed in the same blue shade as the 10¢ Special Delivery stamp of the time. To avoid confusion, the Special Delivery stamp was printed in orange using the same design – creating #E3.

Commemorative Silver Half Dollar

Columbian Stamped Envelopes

Dollar-Value Columbians on Registered Mail

Additional Columbus Stamps