Ireland 1922 Thom Overprint, 2 Shillings 6 Pence

Ireland · 1922 · 2s 6d

This definitive stamp features a map of Ireland overprinted with the Irish text 'Rialtas Sealadach na hÉireann 1922' (Provisional Government of Ireland 1922). The original British stamp, a King George V 'Seahorse' definitive, is obscured by the overprint. This series marked the transition of postal authority from Great Britain to the newly formed Irish Free State.

Issued during the turbulent period following the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, these overprints were a temporary measure to provide postage for the new Provisional Government while purpose-designed Irish stamps were being created.