Europe/Other : Question about sizes of Irish stamps
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Harvey I think, therefore I am - I think! 10 Nov 2020 05:42:15pm
I'm trying to determine the differences between two series of Irish stamps - #65 - #76 and #106 - #117. For the second series it says the size is 18 by 22 but doesn't give a size for the first set, but they seem to measure 18 1/2 by 22. I believe they have different watermarks as well, but that's not my strongest suit. Does any one out there know if the sizes are also a difference between the two series on a consistent basis? Or do I have to check watermarks? Can anyone help?
I take it you mean the "National symbols" definitives (Michel numbers are different). IMHO you really need to check the watermarks to distinguish between the series. The first series has an "e" overlaid with an "s", the second just an "e". Size differences are only significant for the 3 pg and the 5 pg of the second series, where 18 mm x 22 mm stamps are typographed, 17 mm x 21 mm stamps are printed in photogravure. At least that's as far as I got with my standard catalog.
-jmh
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Harvey I think, therefore I am - I think! 11 Nov 2020 02:59:31pm
re: Question about sizes of Irish stamps
Thanks for the help, it's much appreciated. I guess I'll just have to check the watermarks! Not my favorite thing to do but I don't think Ireland is very difficult.
The Irish watermarks are mostly easily visible. If not, use the old trick of a dark background (blackish glass, enamel, ceramic or smooth stone) and a drop of petrol ether (cleansing petrol).
I agree. After you've looked at those two series for a while, most of the SE watermarks are pretty distinguishable with the naked eye. The paper on the first series has a slightly different look as well - maybe just age?
The other thing is there are watermark varieties on some of the first issues (sideways or inverted) and some flyspeck varities that the Irish specialized catalogues list. So, if you want to go really deep on Ireland, it's worth getting a copy of the Hibernian specialized catalogue or Gibbons Ireland.
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