Vox Hiberniae (1965)
The first airmail stamps to be issued by the Irish Department of Posta and Telegraphs did not make their appearance until 1948. On 7th April, 1948, two airmail stamps in the values of 3d and 6d were issued. Additional stamps in the series were issued in 1949 (1d and 1/-), 1954 (8d and 1/3) and 1965 (1/5).
The set of seven airmail stamps, was designed by R. J. King and recess printed by Waterlow and Sons, London, until 1961, and thereafter by De La Rue & Co. Dublin.
The designs feature the Flight of the Angel Victor – Messenger of St. Patrick – carrying the Voice of the irish “Vox Hiberniae” over the world flying over four well-known Irish historical landmarks, one from each of the four provinces of Ireland: Lough Derg (3d and 8d values), Rock of Cashel (1d, 1/3 and 1/5 values), Glendalough (1/- value) and Crogh Patrick (6d value). These were printed in sheets of 60 stamps with an “e” watermark. Printing varieties exist for several of these stamps, which greatly increase their value.
Become a Member
Do you collect the stamps of Ireland? Are you interested in the postal history of Ireland? If the answer is yes, why not join our association, America’s premiere Irish philatelic group. which specializes in all aspects of Irish philately? Click through for information on the benefits of membership and how to join.