An Post Philately – Ireland

 

 

An Post Philately is the official postal service of Ireland that is responsible for the production and distribution of postage stamps. This service, also known as the Irish Philatelic Service, has a long history dating back to the 17th century and has become an important part of Irish culture. In this article, we will take a closer look at the An Post Philately service, its history, and some of its most notable stamps and designs.

Overview of An Post Philately

An Post Philately is a division of An Post, the Irish postal service, and is responsible for the design, production, and distribution of postage stamps in Ireland. The service offers a wide range of stamps, from commemorative and definitive stamps to personalized and special edition stamps. These stamps are not only used for postage but are also collected by philatelists around the world.

History of An Post Philately

The history of An Post Philately can be traced back to the 17th century when the first Irish postage stamps were issued. These stamps were known as «Hibernian stamps» and were used to prepay postage on letters and packages. However, it wasn’t until 1922, when Ireland gained independence from Britain, that the Irish Free State issued its own postage stamps.

Over the years, An Post Philately has produced a wide variety of stamps, each with its own unique design and significance. From historical figures and events to cultural icons and landmarks, these stamps reflect the rich history and heritage of Ireland.

Notable Stamps and Designs from An Post Philately

One of the most iconic stamps produced by An Post Philately is the «Easter Rising» stamp, issued in 1966 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Easter Rising, a pivotal event in Irish history. This stamp features a design of the GPO (General Post Office) building, which was the headquarters of the rebels during the Rising.

Another notable stamp is the «Book of Kells» stamp, issued in 1990 to celebrate the 1200th anniversary of the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels. The stamp features a design of one of the intricate illustrations from the Book of Kells, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Irish monks.

In recent years, An Post Philately has also released stamps featuring popular Irish cultural icons such as U2, James Joyce, and the Cliffs of Moher. These stamps not only showcase the diversity of Irish culture but also serve as a way to promote Ireland to the rest of the world.

In addition to these stamps, An Post Philately also offers personalized stamps, allowing customers to create their own stamps with personal photos or designs. This service has become increasingly popular for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries.

In conclusion, An Post Philately is not just a postal service, but a reflection of Irish history, culture, and identity. Its stamps and designs serve as a way to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of Ireland. Whether you are a stamp collector or simply looking to send a letter, An Post Philately offers a unique and meaningful way to connect with Ireland.

To learn more about An Post Philately and its services, visit their website at https://www.anpost.com/.