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My Oldest Worlds Fair Memorabilia

 

1893 Chicago Worlds Fair Coin Purse

1893 Chicago Worlds Fair Coin Purse

In 1893 Chicago showed the world what it was made of.  They pulled off an International World’s Fair.  It was BIE (International Exhibitions Bureau) sanctioned and classed a Universal Exposition.  It was also a celebration of the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in the new world in 1492.  Hence the name World’s Fair: Columbian Exposition.

I found these items here in Seattle at an estate sale looking for Seattle World’s Fair memorabilia.  I could not resist adding this to my Seattle collection and since then have widened my purchases to many other fairs.

The little coin purse is only 2 by 3 inches in size but it survived fairly intact for over 110 years.  The outside is mother pearl glued onto the brass frame.  It has a red cloth interior that looks to have never seen a coin.

1893 World's Columbian Exposition Coin Purse

1893 World’s Columbian Exposition Coin Purse

1893 Chicago World's Fair Coin Purse red interior

1893 Chicago World’s Fair Coin Purse red interior

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The other item I bought at this estate sale was the Conkey’s Complete Guide to the World’s Columbian Exposition.

Conkey's Guide to 1893 Chicago World's Fair

Conkey’s Guide to 1893 Chicago World’s Fair

Conkey's Guide Title Page - 1893 Chicago Exposition

Conkey’s Guide Title Page – 1893 Chicago Exposition

1893 World's Columbian Exposition Map - Chicago

1893 World’s Columbian Exposition Map – Chicago

1893 Chicago World's Fair Map of Midway and Plaisance

1893 Chicago World’s Fair Map of Midway and Plaisance

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Where it all Began – 1962 Seattle Worlds Fair

My collection of Worlds Fair items all began so unintended.  A work pal brought to the office some items he was selling.  His wife and him were cleaning house and he thought someone would like the items.   I fell for the Seattle Worlds Fair items he had.   For 24 bucks I got this ashtray and charm bracelet.   Check them out!!

 

My first Worlds Fair Purchase

My first Worlds Fair Purchase

This ashtray is of the US Science Pavilion now called the Pacific Science Center.  I have collected more items around this facility and will share them in the future.

The bracelet has charms from left to right; the Monorail, the Science Pavilion, the Century 21 logo, the Washington State Pavilion (Coliseum/Key Arena), and the Space Needle.

Next are a few close-ups so you can enjoy the finer details.

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