This colorful block of four was issued to honor the 200th anniversary of the first circus performance in the U.S., which was held in Philadelphia in 1793. Named after the circular arenas of ancient Rome, early circuses featured equestrian riders, acrobats, and clowns. In 1871, P.T. Barnum established his own circus, thus beginning the golden age of circuses. He later joined with James A. Bailey in 1881, and in 1907, their show was combined with the Ringling Brothers' to create the "greatest show on earth" - the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Please note: Due to the layout of the pane, the se-tenant may or may not be provided in Scott Catalogue order.