Cork hurling legend Seán Óg gives his stamp of approval

Hurling legend Seán Óg Ó hAilpín was the first recipient of a new stamp bearing the coat of arms of Cork city.

One of six new Irish city stamps issued by An Post, Cork city’s coat of arms stamp features a ship with three masts at full sail, between two towers.

The origins of Irish cities’ coats of arms can be traced back to the medieval and early modern periods, the arrival of the Normans and later, the British conquests.

Philip Mackey, artist for the stamps, said: “I hope the people of Cork city are pleased and excited to see their home, whether native or new, featured on the stamps. It is, after all, among the great cities of Europe.

“I hope, too, that people will be inspired to learn more about where they live as they become more aware of the symbols on buildings, and so on, that they frequently pass.

“Newer residents may develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of their chosen home, and feel a greater sense of belonging to it as a result.”

The set of six ‘N’ rate (€1.85) stamps each covers letter postage within the island of Ireland and are available in sheetlets of four online at www.anpost.ie/shop, in the featured city post offices and selected post offices nationwide.