Ireland 1922 2d 'Saorstát Éireann' Overprint, Die II

Ireland · 1922 · 2d

This definitive stamp features a portrait of King George V, originally issued for Great Britain. It was provisionally overprinted in Gaelic script with 'Saorstát Éireann 1922' (Irish Free State 1922) for use in the newly established state. The orange stamp with the dark blue overprint is a key piece from Ireland's first year of postal independence.

Issued during the transitional period following the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, these overprinted stamps were a practical measure to provide postage for the new Irish Free State before its own unique designs could be produced.