Ireland year 1969 stamps -50 years Parliament

In 1969, Ireland issued a set of commemorative stamps to mark the 50th anniversary of the first Dáil Éireann (Irish Parliament). This was a significant milestone in Irish history, as it commemorated the first meeting of the Dáil on January 21, 1919, which is often considered the beginning of Irish independence.

The stamp issue consisted of two values:

1. A 4d (pence) stamp: This stamp featured a symbolic design representing the first Dáil. It likely included elements like the coat of arms of Ireland (a harp), or imagery related to the meeting place or the event itself.
2. A 1/- (one shilling) stamp: This higher value stamp probably had a more elaborate design, possibly featuring portraits of key figures from the first Dáil, such as Cathal Brugha (the first Ceann Comhairle or chairman), or Éamon de Valera (who was elected President of the Dáil in absentia as he was in prison at the time).

Both stamps would have had inscriptions in both English and Irish (Gaeilge), reflecting Ireland’s bilingual status. The inscriptions likely included phrases like “50th Anniversary of the First Dáil” or “50 Bliain ón gCéad Dáil.”

These stamps were not only postage items but also symbolic representations of Ireland’s journey towards independence and self-governance. They would have been used on letters and parcels within Ireland and for international mail.