Old Original Vintage Circus Posters Antique Magic Memorabilia Collectibles For Sale
 
 
 

ONLY Guaranteed Authentic Original Vintage Circus Posters, Antique Magic posters, Political posters
and other highly collectible Americana memorabilia Treasures.

*NOTE:   If you see  "SOLD OUT" on an item you're interested in, let us know.
In most cases we can locate another

Here you will find some of the most amazing ORIGINAL Rare Vintage Circus Posters from the late 19th Century to through the 1950s.   From the major circus companies like Ringling Brothers and Barnum to Bailey to Clyde Beatty & Wild Bill Cody along with lesser known old circus posters.  

Why Do People Collect Vintage Circus & Magic Memorabilia 

People are drawn to collect vintage historic circus memorabilia for a multitude of reasons, captivated by the enchanting allure and rich history of the circus.   Collecting these treasures allows individuals to immerse themselves in a bygone era, preserving the legacy of a vibrant and extraordinary form of entertainment.     Much the same reason people collect Classic Sports & Movie Memorabilia , comic books, Original Concert Posters  and Vintage Toys.

Vintage circus memorabilia holds a nostalgic charm that transports collectors back to a time when the circus was a grand spectacle, filled with awe-inspiring performances, eccentric characters, and mesmerizing acts. It evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, showcasing the artistic and cultural heritage of an era long past.   For many, collecting circus memorabilia is not just a hobby but a passionate pursuit, driven by a desire to preserve the stories, imagery, and craftsmanship associated with this remarkable chapter in history.   Moreover, vintage circus memorabilia holds artistic and aesthetic appeal, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs that are often unmatched in contemporary creations.

Each artifact holds a unique tale, allowing collectors to connect with the past, celebrate the remarkable feats of human skill and creativity, and keep the magic of the circus alive for generations to come.

The origin of the modern circus has been attributed to Philip Astley, a cavalry officer from England who set 

up the first modern amphitheatre for the display of horse riding tricks in Lambeth, London on 4 April 1768. Astley did not originate trick horse riding, nor was he first to introduce acts such as acrobats and clowns to the   English public, but he was the first to create a space where all these acts were brought together to perform a show. Astley referred to the performance arena as a Circle and the building as an amphitheatre but these were to later be known as a Circus. Astley was followed by Andrew Ducrow, whose feats of horsemanship had much to do with establishing the traditions of the circus, which were perpetuated by Henglers and Sangers celebrated shows in a later generation. In England circuses were often held in purpose built buildings in large cities, such as the London Hippodrome, which was built as a combination of the circus, the menagerie and the variety theatre, where wild animals such as lions and elephants from time to time appeared in the ring, and where convulsions of nature such as floods, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions have been produced with an extraordinary wealth of realistic display. In 1782, Astley established the Amphithéâtre Anglais in Paris, the first purpose-built circus in France, followed by 18 other permanent circuses in cities throughout Europe..  Astley leased his Parisian circus to the Italian Antonio Franconi in 1793.

*NOTE:  To view Only available posters to the top and sold out to the bottom, use the SORT BY drop down menu and select "PRICE High to Low".  Then all the Sold out itemns will go to the bottom .