Ireland 2d 'Map of Ireland' Overprinted 'Rialtas Sealadach na hÉireann 1922'

Ireland · 1922 · 2d

This stamp features a green map of Ireland, originally a British issue from the King George V definitive series. It was overprinted in black with the Gaelic text 'Rialtas Sealadach na hÉireann 1922', which translates to 'Provisional Government of Ireland 1922'. This overprint marked the transition of postal authority from British to Irish control.

Issued in 1922, these overprinted stamps were the first postage stamps of the newly formed Irish Free State, following the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921. They represent a critical moment in Ireland's path to independence.