Ireland Machin Head Definitive

Ireland · 1982 · 26p

This definitive stamp features a plaster cast portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a design created by sculptor Arnold Machin. Originally introduced in Great Britain in 1967, this iconic 'Machin head' design was adapted for use in Ireland with a new currency value. The simple, elegant profile against a solid dark green background became a hallmark of British and Irish postage for decades.

Issued in the early 1980s, this stamp represents a period of continued use of the Machin design, which was notable for its longevity and widespread recognition across the British Isles.