Equine Beauties get Stamp of Approval

1 September 2011

An Post’s Irish Stamps division expects huge retail and online demand for the new stamps. “Irish Stamps are renowned the world over for the quality of their subject matter and artistry so we are expecting these ones to sell at a right gallop,” a spokesperson said.    “Horse lovers, racing enthusiasts and stamp collectors dream of owning a Peter Curling masterpiece – this is their chance, at 55c each!” she added. 

The stamps and a special First Day Cover by designer Steve Simpson are available at www.irishstamps.ie and at main post offices and the Irish Stamps shop at Dublin’s GPO (Tel:01-7057400). 

Thoroughbred horses are mainly bred for racing and also compete in eventing and show jumping. They are often crossed with other breeds to create new strains or to improve existing ones. Ireland is the world's third most important producer of Thoroughbreds.  The Connemara Pony is Ireland's only native pony breed, though the precise details of its origins are unknown. This strong and sturdy animal performs particularly well in competition.

The Coloured Horse is sometimes referred to as ‘Piebald’ or ‘Skewbald’ and is defined by its external visible coat colouration and markings. They are often crossed with thoroughbreds to produce world-class hunters with superior jumping ability. Originally bred for farm work, the Irish Draught Horse is regularly crossbred with thoroughbreds to create Sports horses. Versatile and athletic, with a very good temperament, it has helped make Irish horses famous throughout the world.

The stamps and a special First Day Cover by designer Steve Simpson are available at www.irishstamps.ie and at main post offices and the Irish Stamps shop at Dublin’s GPO (Tel:01-7057400).