22 inches in diameter
 
 
Top hats from the Exposition Universelle 1900 (World's Fair) in Paris are rare, highly collectible antiques, typically black silk, often collapsible (opera hats), and sometimes found with original boxes or markings, representing the peak of formal men's fashion and craftsmanship from that era
 
Key Characteristics of Exposition Universelle 1900 Top Hats:
Material: Primarily high-quality black silk or beaver fur.
Style: Often tall, classic men's formal wear, with collapsible (pop-up) opera styles being common.
Markings: May bear "Exposition Universelle 1900" or "Paris 1900" stamps or original hat box labels.
Craftsmanship: Represents fine French or German hat-making of the period, with makers like Paulson mentioned.
Collectibility: Valued for their history, elegance, and rarity, especially in good condition or with original packaging. 
Significance:
The top hat was the ultimate symbol of a gentleman's status and fashion in the late 19th/early 20th century, with height often equating to prestige.
The 1900 Exposition celebrated global innovation and culture, making items from the event particularly desirable keepsakes.