3 August 1492 remains a significant date in the history of mankind. For it was on that date that Christopher Columbus, reputedly the finest sailor of his time, set sail for the East Indies. Leading an entourage of some 90 men in three ships, Columbus sought to fulfil his dream of reaching the fabled lands of the East, renown for their jewels, spices, silver and gold. Unknown to Columbus, he discovered the New World on this historic expedition and three others which followed later.

1992 marks the 500th anniversary of the landing of Columbus in America. To commemorate this event, the World Columbian Stamp Expo '92 will be held in Chicago, USA to honour Columbus as well as explorers the world over for their achievements.

The Heritage Series - Costumes of Old Singapore issue presents family portraits and traditional costumes of Singapore's communities. The clever juxtaposition of the sepia tone of the portraits with the varied hues and motifs on each fabric gives the stamps a dated look but with a current appeal. This treatment of the subject follows through the postcards. The illustrations on the obverse are enlarged versions of the portraits of each family, beautified with a strip of the respective fabrics at a corner. A sepia background colour reiterates the dated setting of this stamp issue.

A Peranakan Silver Belt and Indian Bracelets

These postcards are available to collectors without stamps and as maxicards with stamps to match each illustration.

The first day cover design incorporates the dominant motifs on the fabrics. The World Columbian Stamp Expo '92 exhibition logo appears on the first day covers and postcards, sealing this as a commemorative issue.

The beautiful illustrations for this issue combine well with the special gold printing on the first day covers and presentation packs. Looking at this issue, one cannot fail to agree that old things have a timeless appeal. Indeed, their beauty and value increase with each passing year. Which is, after all, what collectors' items are meant to be.