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1893 Columbian Exposition Commemorative Series
uncommonpre-1900

1893 Columbian Exposition Commemorative Series

United States · 1893 · 1¢ to $5

This set of sixteen stamps commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's first voyage to the Americas. The designs, based on famous paintings, depict key events from his journey, including his landing in the New World, seeking aid from Queen Isabella, and various scenes from his expeditions. Issued for the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, it was the first commemorative stamp series issued by the United States.

The 1893 World's Columbian Exposition was a major cultural event celebrating American progress and the anniversary of Columbus's arrival. These stamps were a significant part of the fair's promotion and marked a new era in U.S. postage stamp production.

Catalog Numbers

scott230-245

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$2,500
Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$1,800
Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$1,200
Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$750
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$400

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.