Issue Date: August 25, 1933
City: Chicago, Illinois
Printed By: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Flat Plate Printing
Color: Deep violet

The stamp was part of a 25-stamp imperforate souvenir sheet without gum issued to commemorate the American Philatelic Society convention, which took place in Chicago. It pictures the Federal Building.

 

In 1933, during the Great Depression, Chicago held the Century of Progress Exposition to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its incorporation as a village. The Exposition was held on the lakefront and featured many outstanding exhibits on the latest advancements in science and technology. It brought an enormous amount of business to the city and was a huge relief from the woes of the Great Depression.

 

Two of the main features on the Chicago Exposition grounds were meant to provide a contrast by which to measure the city’s progress. A restoration of Fort Dearborn, the original site of Chicago, which had twice been destroyed, stood in sight of the towering Federal Building, which dominated the grounds. These concrete symbols of Chicago’s progress were natural choices as stamp subjects.