21 October 1893 World’s Fair Station Chicago postmark on souvenir cover with coin design
4¢ Columbian series stamp on 10¢ Columbian series postal stationery

The first commemorative series of United States stamps was issued in conjunction with the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. Sixteen denominations were included. Above is a souvenir cover prepared by J. A. Pierce at the fair.

1893 World’s Columbian Exposition Chicago Half Dollar

The first commemorative silver coin of the United States was the Columbian half dollar released the same day as the stamp set on January 1, 1893. The half dollar was sold as a souvenir for $1.00 each at the fair and remainders were later released at face value.