An Post First Day Cover and Insert
On 20th February 2020, An Post issued this First Day Cover and Insert to commemorate the War of Independence. The stamp designed by Ger Garland features a detail from the painting “Men of the South” by Seán Keating and portrays a Flying Column of the IRA lying in wait to ambush the British Crown Forces.
An Post-Collector Magazine Issue No.1
Included in this issue is the War of Independence stamp.
War of Independence Coins
These War of Independence and Kevin Barry coins commissioned by Barry O’Neill were issued in a limited number.
Boxed Gold Plated War of Independence Coin
Battle of Clonmult
On Sunday 20th February 1921, at Clonmult near Midleton County Cork almost the entire 4th Battalion of the First Cork Brigade based in East Cork were wiped out having been ambushed by the British army re-inforced by Auxiliaries. The Battle of Clonmult was the IRA’s greatest loss of life ever in a single engagement against the British. In January the Flying Column were residing in a disused farmhouse overlooking the village of Clonmult. An intelligence officer traced them and troops moved in to surround the farmhouse. Two volunteers John Joe Joyce and Michael Desmond were filling water bottles at the well and noticed the encroaching troops. They opened fire and both were killed in the exchange. Hearing the gunfire other volunteers attempted to escape from the farmhouse. Three died in the attempt and only the Commander Captain Jack O’Connell managed to break through to safety. The British then set fire to the thatched roof of the farmhouse and the remainder of the IRA were forced to surrender to avoid being burnt to death. The British officer in command had guaranteed them their safety if they surrendered. Twelve men surrendered and were lined up in front of a cowshed. Without warning the Auxiliaries opened fire and seven prisoners were shot dead and three others lay wounded. Twelve members of the Flying Column were killed, eight were captured and only one had escaped. The volunteers were taken to Victoria Barracks where two of them Maurice Moore and Paddy O’Sullivan were subsequently executed. The Commander of the Flying Column Diarmuid O’Hurley was killed on the 28th May 1921 at Gurtacrue, Midleton by a patrol of Black and Tans.
Boxed Commemorative Badges
These two boxes of commemorative badges were issued in memory of the Battle of Clonmult. The first box contains 15 badges of column members who died during the War of Independence, twelve of whom died at Clonmult, 2 that were executed and the column leader who died at Gurtacrue. The second box contains 9 badges of those who survived the Battle of Clonmult.
The Battle of Clonmult-The IRA’s Worst Defeat
This 159-page book (Revised Edition) by Tom O’Neill provides information on the formation of the Flying Column, the events leading up to the battle, a detailed account of the battle, the aftermath, trials, executions and reprisals. My copy is signed by the author.
Martin Devitt Centenary Commemoration
Martin Devitt Commandant of the Mid Clare Brigade from Cahersharkin, Ennistymon, County Clare was killed in action as he engaged an RIC patrol in the Fermoyle Ambush at Crowe’s Bridge, Inagh on 24th February 1920. In the exchange of fire, Martin Devitt was shot in the head and died at the scene of the ambush. His Centenary Commemoration organised by the Mid Clare Brigade Commemoration Committee 2020 was held on Sunday 23rd February 2020. It commenced with mass at St. Columba’s Church, Clouna, Ennistymon followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Martin Devitt’s grave at Clouna Cemetery with Military Honours provided by the Defence Forces. Later in the Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, the Mid Clare Brigade Commemoration Committee 2020 commemorations were launched.
Programme of Events for the Martin Devitt Centenary Commemoration
Martin Devitt Bookmark
Sinn Féin War of Independence Badge
Independence Museum Kilmurry
Information booklet, postcard, bookmark and mini-poster from the Independence Museum Kilmurry.
Centenary of the Death of Tomás MacCurtáin
Tomás MacCurtáin was a Sinn Féin Lord Mayor of Cork. On 20th January 1920 after serving just 49 days in office as Lord Mayor, he was shot dead on his 36th birthday in front of his wife and son by members of the Royal Irish Constabulary. The killing caused widespread public outrage and the coroner’s inquest passed a verdict of wilful murder against Britain’s Prime Minister Lloyd George and certain members of the RIC. Tomás MacCurtáin is interred in St. Finbarr’s Cemetery. Events scheduled to mark the Centenary of his death were cancelled due to the threat posed by Covid-19.
To watch some original footage of the funeral of Tomás MacCurtáin I recommend you watch Sinn Féin’s video here
Centenary Concert Ticket
A ticket for the cancelled Centenary Concert for Tomás MacCurtáin which was to be held on Friday 20th March 2020 at Cork City Concert Hall.
Remember its for Ireland
This publication by Fionnuala MacCurtain tells the story of her grandfather Tomás MacCurtáin. It is full of family memorabilia including portraits, diary extracts and letters from Tomás MacCurtáin. The book also provides information on the family left behind after his murder.
Cork Examiner Supplement-20th March 2020
A 16-page supplement published by the Cork Examiner on 20th March 2020 to mark the Centenary of the murder of Tomás MacCurtáin.
Terence MacSwiney
Terence MacSwiney was elected Lord Mayor of Cork and commandant of the Cork 1st Brigade of the IRA following the assassination of Tomás MacCurtáin, his predecessor and close friend by the RIC. When a military tribunal sentenced him to two years for possession of documents likely to cause disaffection to the crown and a cipher used by the RIC to encrypt messages MacSwiney responded, “I have decided the term of my imprisonment. Whatever your government may do, I shall be free, alive or dead, within a month.” He was taken to Brixton Prison in South London where he refused to eat. Suddenly Terence MacSwiney became an international figure triggering mass demonstrations from Buenos Aires to Boston. Riots broke out on the streets of Barcelona and workers downed tools in New York. In Ireland the GAA abandoned its fixtures and workers in Jacob’s Biscuits in Dublin went on strike. On 20th October 1920, Terence MacSwiney fell into a coma and five days later after 73 days without food he passed away. News of his death caused a riot outside Brixton Prison and 30,000 people filed past his body in St. George’s Cathedral. On 31st October 1920, over 100,000 people lined the streets in Cork City to watch Terence MacSwiney being taken from Cork’s Cathedral to St. Finbarr’s Cemetery, Glasheen to be buried close to his friend Tomás MacCurtáin.
To watch some original footage of Terence MacSwiney’s funeral, I recommend you watch the British Pathe video here
Terence MacSwiney: In His Own Words
This 50-page Centenary tribute booklet was published by the National Commemorations Committee, Sinn Féin. It honours Terence MacSwiney in his own words and includes many family portraits and photographs of his funeral processions in London and Cork.
Tomas MacCurtain and Terence MacSwiney Centenary Badges
Cork 2020
Cork City was to be the focus of the 1920 Centenary events. This 22-page programme of events booklet produced by St.Peter’s Cork, Cork City Libraries, Cork Public Museum and Cork City and County Archives provides information on the various exhibitions and events that were to be held in Cork throughout 2020.
Death of John Hume
On 3rd August 2020, John Hume the Nobel Peace Prize winner and prominent politician passed away in Derry. The former SDLP leader was involved in the civil rights movement of the 1960s and served as an MP, Assembly Member and MEP. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the process that led to the Good Friday Agreement.
Irish Independent: Tuesday 4th August 2020
Irish Examiner: Tuesday 4th August 2020
Galway’s Night of Terror
On 8th September 1920, at Galway’s Train Station a gun battle occurred on the platform which left IRA volunteer John Mulvoy and an RIC constable dead. Later that evening Crown Forces went on a rampage in the city and buildings and civilians were attacked. James Quirk a watchmaker from Cork and adjutant of the local IRA Batttalion was beaten and shot and died of his injuries. It is estimated that 10,000 people turned out on the streets of Galway for the joint funerals of Mulvoy and Quirk. As a result a curfew was imposed in Galway and 15 nights of terror followed.
Article from the Galway Advertiser: Saturday 10th September 1920
Centenary of the Rineen Ambush
The Rineen Ambush took place on 22nd September 1920 at Dromin Hill, Rineen about 2 miles north of Miltown Malbay. It was the perfect spot for an ambush as it was possible to see the enemy coming from both sides. The leadership of the IRA’s Mid Clare Brigade had noticed that an RIC lorry travelled every week on the Ennistymon to Miltown Malbay Road. The volunteers prepared to attack the lorry from a boreen that overlooked the road at Rineen on its return journey from Miltown Malbay. It was hit by a grenade and blasted at close range by rifle and shotgun fire. The shooting was over in seconds with 5 out of the 6 RIC men being killed outright. The sixth man managed to run about 300 yards before being shot down. Five of those killed were RIC officers, the other a Black and Tan. The volunteers took their weapons and set fire to the lorry. Not long after the lorry was set ablaze, 3 lorry loads of police came to a halt and 30 more were on bicycles. The second phase of the fight quickly commenced. It seemed that the volunteers had little chance against such a superior force. They took cover behind ditches and the gunfight continued for over 3 hours. A final effort was made by the Black and Tans when 4 of them attempted to storm the volunteers but all were shot down in a hail of bullets. The IRA had inflicted a defeat upon a vastly superior force.
The Mid Clare Brigade Commemoration Committee distributed these two bookmarks around the local schools in the area.
Ireland’s Own-Centenary Souvenir Edition
A Bloody Conflict
An Post First Day Cover and Insert
On 24th September 2020, An Post issued this First Day Cover and Insert to commemorate the War of Independence. Designed by Ger Garland one stamp features an IRA Court in session in Westport Townhall in 1920 and the second stamp features an image of a headline from the Freeman’s Journal 21st May 1920 in relation to the Munition’s Strike.
An Post-Collector Magazine Issue No.2
Included in this issue is the War of Independence stamps.
Centenary of Bloody Sunday
On the morning of 21st November 2020, an elite IRA unit known as “The Squad” were ordered by Michael Collins to assassinate the British Intelligence Network in Ireland specifically a group of officers known as the “Cairo Gang.” The shooting took place in Dublin and resulted in 14 deaths including 6 intelligence agents and 2 members of the Auxilaries. Later on in the day, Dublin and Tipperary were to play in a challenge match in Croke Park, the proceeds of which were in aid of the Republican Prisoners Dependents Fund. A crowd of almost 10,000 attended the match. Not long after the match had started, the RIC, Auxiliaries and military entered Croke Park and fired on the crowd. Fourteen people including a player Michael Hogan from Tipperary were murdered and between 60 and 100 people were injured.
Bloody Sunday Centenary Badges
Bloody Sunday Gold-Plated Centenary Coin
Ireland’s Own: 20th November 2020
History on Your Doorstep Commemorative Booklet
A 62-page commemorative edition of the “History on Your Doorstep” booklet produced by Dublin City Council to mark the Centenary of Bloody Sunday.
Irish Independent Supplement: 21st November 2020
Irish Examiner: 21st November 2020- 5 pages of content
Leinster GAA Football Senior Championship Final Programme
Th Leinster GAA Football Senior Championship Final between Dublin and Meath was held in Croke Park on 21st November 2020, the Centenary of the Bloody Sunday killings. The match programme contains 15 pages of content on Bloody Sunday.
Centenary of the Kilmichael Ambush
On 28th November 1920, the largest ambush of the War of Independence occurred at Kilmichael which is situated between Dunmanway and Macroom in County Cork. It resulted in the heaviest loss of life for the British in any engagement of the War of Independence. The Auxiliaries were on patrol in 2 lorries when members of the IRA led by Commander Tom Barry lay in ambush at a lonely section of the road. The first lorry containing 9 Auxiliaries slowed almost to a halt close to the intended ambush position at which point Barry gave the order to fire and a Mill’s Bomb was thrown that exploded in the open cab of the lorry. The fighting was ferocious with intense hand to hand combat. Some of the Auxiliaries were killed using rifle butts and bayonets in a brutal and bloody encounter. By the end of this engagement all 9 of the Auxiliaries lay dead or dying. While this part of the fight was going on, the second lorry drove into the ambush position. The Auxiliaries dismounted to the road and exchanged fire but soon called out a surrender. Some of them dropped their rifles but opened fire with revolvers when 3 volunteers emerged from cover killing one volunteer instantly. Barry ordered rapid fire and not to stop until he gave the order. He kept his men firing at a range of 10 yards until he believed all the Auxiliaries were dead. Seventeen members of the Auxiliaries were killed in the Kilmichael Ambush.
Centenary Supplement from the Southern Star: Saturday 21st November 2020
Irish Independent Review-28th November 2020
The Burning of Cork
As a result of the Kilmichael Ambush, Martial Law was declared in Munster on 10th December 2020. On 11th December a lorry load of Auxiliaries was ambushed by the IRA at Dillon’s Cross close to their base at Victoria Barracks. Twelve were injured and one later died of his wounds. Later that evening, Auxiliaries drove to the centre of Cork City where they set a tram on fire. In Patrick Street, they smashed the doors and windows of Grant’s Department Sore and set it ablaze. Cash’s and the Munster Arcade were also torched which quickly spread and most of the shops on one side of Patrick Street and some on the Grand Parade were completely destroyed. The Auxiliaries then made their way to the City Hall which they also torched as well as the Carnegie Free Library. The Cork City Fire Brigade who tried to deal with some of the fires were shot at, their fire hoses were cut and the fire hydrants were turned off. BY the end of 1920, the Rule of Law had completely broken down.
Centenary Supplement from the Irish Examiner: Friday 11th December 2020
Irish Independent Review-12th December 2020
Many of the Centenary events organised around the country in 2020 were cancelled due to the threat posed by Covid-19. This bi-lingual booklet in English and Irish published by the Irish Government and the HSE was delivered free by An Post to every household in the country. It contains information about Ireland and Covid-19 including how the Government is responding to the pandemic, the symptoms of Covid-19 and how you should self-isolate.
Covid-19: Public Information Booklet
Stay Safe Guidelines
This bilingual booklet in English and Irish is designed to help people make decisions to minimise the risk of contacting Covid-19.
Two further Government publications in Irish
Keeping Well this Winter
This bilingual booklet in English and Irish contains health information for keeping active, getting outside and staying connected with other people during the pandemic.
National Framework for Living with Covid-19
This bilingual public information booklet was also issued by the Irish Government.
Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Application Form
HSE Information Poster
Irish Defence Forces
Plastic bag and paper contents; usage leaflet and quality assurance leaflet from China for the Irish Defence Forces issue Covid-19 face mask. These masks were brought back at the same time as the HSE masks by an Aer Lingus charter.
Results of a PCR Test
A Negative PCR Test for a passenger returning from Valencia, Spain to Ireland on 5th November 2020.
My 2020 Covid-19 Lidl Time Capsule
Leaflet from the Athlone Methodist Church
Peter & Paul Parish Newsletter Athlone: 5th April 2020
Peter & Paul Parish Athlone: Application for Volunteers Stewarding/Cleaning
Lockdown Birthday Cards: Sign of the Pandemic
Minghui International Magazine
This 24-page publication dedicated to the coronavirus pandemic was distributed free in Ireland and contains insights and perspectives by practitioners of Falun Dafa a spiritual and meditation discipline in China.
An Post Automatic Stamp
At the beginning of April 2020, An Post started to use a new automatic stamp on postal items calling on citizens to “Stay AT Home”
An Post Postcards
An Post delivered two free postcards to every household in Ireland in a campaign to encourage people to write to their grand-parents or older relatives and friends who are self-isolating to let them know you are thinking of them.
From 21st January 2021, An Post also delivered these free postcards to every household in Ireland.
Private Postal Items
These Cocooning Mail Cinderella labels and First Day Covers were issued by Paddy Lineen from Achill Island. The money raised from sales was donated to the Peter McVerry Trust.
This limited edition First Day Cover was produced by Liam Byrne from Athlone.
An Post Christmas 2020 Issue
On 5th November 2020, An Post issued a set of six stamps illustrated by Liz Rackard which feature traditional Christmas images and scenes of how the Covid-19 pandemic will impact on Christmas in Ireland in 2020.
Set of Six Stamps
First Day Cover
An Post-Collector Magazine Issue No.3
Included in this issue is the Christmas stamps.
Many postal authorities around the world issued stamps to commemorate the unfolding tragic event of Covid-19 as a tribute to those front-line workers who continue to fight this dangerous pandemic. Another reason for issuing these postal items is to help raise public awareness to implement social distancing and protective measures as the most effective means of combating this disease. I have inserted below my collection of postal material for Covid-19.
March 2020
Iran
Issued: 17th March 2020
On 17th March 2020, less than a week after the World Health Organisation declared Covid-19 a pandemic, Iran issued the world’s first Covid-19 stamp entitled “Heroes” with a value of 18000 Rials.
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
First Day Covers
These seven First Day Covers were mistakenly cancelled a day later on 18th March 2020.
Maximum Cards
These three Maximum Cards were also mistakenly cancelled a day later on 18th March 2020.
Liechtenstein
Issued: 20th March 2020
On 20th March 2020, Liechtenstein issued a 1 Franc and a 1.50 Franc stamp set entitled “i denk a di” ´[ I am thinking of you] to encourage the writing of letters to keep in touch during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Perforated Stamp Set
Maximum Card
Souvenir Sheet
The Souvenir Sheet contains three 1 Franc stamps which have the same designs as the stamp issue but the hummingbird and envelope stamp has a value of 1 Franc instead of 1.50 Francs.
Personalized Souvenir Sheet
This personalized souvenir sheet entitled “Stay Strong Wu Han” was issued through the Die Mark.li service. The stamps are valid for postal use but it is not an official Liechtenstein Post release.
Vietnam
Issued: 31st March 2020
On 31st March 2020, Vietnam issued a pair of postage stamps entitled “Combined Forces Against Covid-19” with a value of 4,000 and 15,000 Vietnamese dong.
Blocks of Four Perforated Stamps
Stamp Booklet
First Day Cover
The First Day Cover has a special cancellation “Hanoi 31st March 2020” and a date cancellation “Saigon 31st March 2020.”
Maximum Cards
Private Issue First Day Cover
From the Vietnam Stamp Company
Airmail letter from Vietnam to Spain with Covid-19 Stamp Set
United States
Issued: 16th March 2020
On 16th March 2020, President Trump’s administration sent this prepaid card to households throughout America with instructions on how to behave during the pandemic and what to do to slow the spread of the virus.
Germany
On 6th March 2020, the private postal company Brief Und Mehr based in the North Rhine issued two 0.70c printer stamps with the slogan “Stay Home Saves Lives” in English and the slogan in German “Stay Healthy.”
Brief Und Mehr also issued these Covid-19 related stamps with the slogan “Stay Healthy.”
On 26th March 2020, the private postal company Arrive.De based in Baden issued a 0.75c stamp tab of which 0.15c was donated to charity. It has the slogan in German “Write Instead of Visiting, Together against Corona Virus.”
Arriva.De also issued this limited edition of 30 First Day Covers with the 0.75c stamp tab. My First Day cover is No.21.
Andorra
From March 2020, Andorra used these three information stickers to inform about problems with post from abroad. “Queda’t a Casa”-“Stay at Home.”
United Kingdom
From 31st March 2020, mail centres throughout the United Kingdom used this slogan cancellation on all postal items “Stay Home: Protect the NHS: Save Lives.” My Air Mail envelope posted to the United Arab Emirates on 15th April 2020 was processed at the Royal Mail Nottingham Mail Centre.
April 2020
Switzerland
Issued: 5th April 2020
On 5th April 2020, Switzerland became the first European country to issue a stamp for the Covid-19 pandemic. The 100 cent stamp included a surcharge of 500 cents and were sold in sheets of 10. The proceeds were split between the Swiss Red Cross and Swiss Solidarity.
Germany
From April 2020, the central international post-office in Frankfort used a special postal cachet to countries with postal shipments interrupted with the text translated from the German “Back to the Sender/Postal traffic to the country of destination is currently interrupted/The resumption is currently not foreseeable. My cover was sent to Ecuador and cancelled on 18th June 2020 with mixed franking BMI 2x5c stamps and international 0.95c and 0.05c stamps. Only three of these covers were issued.
On 2nd April 2020, the private postal company LMF based in Bavaria issued a 0.75c customised interior printer entitled “Johanna’s Drawing” and the slogan in English “Stay at Home.”
On 6th April 2020, the private postal company Biber Post based in Offenbach near Frankfort issued a 0.70c stamp tab with the slogan in German “Together.”
In April 2020, the private postal company Post Modern based in Dresden issued a 0.70c stamp tab with the slogan in German “We Help Together.”
In April 2020, the private postal company Citipost based in Hannover issued this postcard with the slogan in German “Together Instead of Lonely.”
Citipost also issued this postcard with the slogan in German “Closely Connected Despite the Distance.”
Special cover from the Berlin private post company Pin Mail with the slogan in German “Berlin Together against Corona Virus. Dated 20th April 2020.
Indonesia
Issued: 7th April 2020
On 7th April 2020, Indonesia issued this Personalised Sheet. Funds raised were donated to various Covid.19 charities.
China
Wu Han as the world’s first outbreak city of the Covid-19 epidemic, China Post of Wu Han produced 5 commemorative postmarks to remember and give tribute to the heroes of the epidemic.
- Wu Han anti-epidemic events.
- The army and 30 brother provinces and cities. (Aid-Medical Teams).
- Wu Han Anti-epidemic designed hero hospitals.
- Wu Han mobile cabin hospitals.
- China’s anti-epidemic stamp first issued in Wu Han.
On 16th April 2020, one week after the lockdown this card was delivered to a small village in Fufeng County, Shaanvi Province which is 850 kilometres from Wu Han. Upon arrival the card was disinfected and it contains the full set of 5 postmarks with disinfected labels.
Singapore
This letter from Singapore has a special postmark “United Here with You” and is dated 7th April 2020.
India
On 21st April 2020, the Karela Postal Circle issued this cover entitled “Corona Warriors.”
This postcard from Nagpur entitled “Corona Postal Warriors” was issued in a limited edition of 100. My cover is No.6
These four official postcards were issued on 24th April 2020 by the Indian Postal Service.
On 26th April 2020, India issued this commemorative cover entitled “Behind the Mask.”
Croatia
Issued: 30th April 2020
On 30th April 2020, Croatia issued this postcard with a special cancellation. Although the original pre-printed postcards are official, the added images on the left are not an official release
United Kingdom
Issued: 30th April 2020
On 30th April 2020, the United Kingdom used the machine slogan “Happy 100th Birthday Captain Thomas Moore NHS Fundraising Hero.”
May 2020
Germany
From 1st May 2020, the German Post’s Internet Service “Internetmarke” used these two pre-defined motifs related to the fight against Covid-19.
On 4th May 2020, the private postal company LVZ based in Leipzig issued a 0.75c stamp tab with an additional 0.15c donated to charity. It has the slogan in German “Together instead of Alone.”
On 14th May 2020, the private postal company Elster Post based in Greiz in Central Germany issued a 0.75c stamp tab with the slogan in German “Stay in Contact”-“Write Letters.”
Isle of Man
Issued: 4th May 2020
On 4th May 2020, the Isle of Man issued a series of 8 stamps entitled “Carry Us Through.” The stamps were issued in a standard version with glue and also as self-adhesive stamps. They depict various emotions, feelings and activities; Love, Faith, Care, Compassion, Work, Community, Words and Science.
Two First Day Covers with an insert
Morocco
Issued: 7th May 2020
On 7th May 2020, Morocco issued a stamp with a face value of 3,75 dirhams with a surtax of 5,00 dirhams and the text in Moroccan “United Against Covid-19.” The surtax was donated to the Covid-19 Special Fund.
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
First Day Cover
Registered letter to Spain which includes the Covid-19 Moroccan Stamp and A Marrakesh meter slogan in red translated as “Stay At Your Homes to Stop the Pandemic.”
United Kingdom
This Children in Need postcard features a cartoon by well-known artist Rupert Besley.
Canada
From 1st May 2020, Canada used this machine cancellation in French and English “Thanks Healthcare Workers.”
Australia
From 1st May 2020, Australia used this machine cancellation “Stay Safe and Connected Australia.”
United Arab Emirates
Issued: 10th May 2020
On 10th May 2020, the United Arab Emirates issued a leaf-block to the value of 19 dirhams and entitled “Thank You to Our Heroes-Covid-19.”
First Day Cover
Postcard
Stamp Booklet
This booklet from the United Arab Emirates in Arabic and English pays tribute to the frontline workers and provides the technical details of the stamp issue.
China
Issued: 11th May 2020
On 11th May 2020, China issued a se-tenant stamp pair with a small heart perforation between the pair of stamps entitled “Union is Strength against Covid-19.
First Day Cover
Two Commemorative Self-Adhesive Sheetlets
A set of 8 Anti-Covid-19 postcards entitled “Hero-Defeat Covid-19.” Designed in the shape of a face mask, they were issued by China Post and came in a special presentation folder.
A Personalised Sheetlet and Cover entitled “China Fighting Covid-19-Salute Heroes in Harm’s Way” issued in a Special Presentation Folder.
Bosnia Herzegovina
Surcharge self-adhesive stamps issued by the Bosnia Sarajevo Red Cross. The first 0.20 KM stamp was mandatory on all domestic letters posted on 8th May to 15th May. The 0.50 KM stamp and the second 0.20 KM stamp was sold by Red Cross activists to civilians on the streets to raise funds.
Uruguay
Issued: 13th May 2020
On 13th May 2020, Uruguay issued a 25 pesos stamp entitled “National Corona Virus Plan.”
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
First Day Cover
USA
A letter sent from the USA to Algeria on 13th May 2020 and returned to Sender/Refused/Unable to Forward.
A cachet with a propagation cancel used on the USS Military Roosevelt informing about the cancellation of the Fleet Week event in New York due to Covid-19.
McIntosh Private Issue Cachet
Cachet
Republic of Djibouti
Issued: 16th May 2020
On 16th May 2020, the Republic of Djibouti issued a set of 4 stamps and a miniature sheet.
Set of Four Stamps
Miniature Sheet
New Zealand
Issued: 20th May 2020
On 20th May 2020, New Zealand issued a 6 stamp sheet, 3 x 1.30 NZ dollars and 3 x 2.60 NZ dollars depicting Teddy Bears with the text, “New Zealand Bear Hunt.”
Ukraine
Issued: 29th May 2020
On 29th May 2020, Ukraine issued a stamp to the value of 9.00 Grivnas paying tribute to healthcare workers.
Sheet of Nine Stamps
First Day Cover
Slovakia
A letter posted from Slovakia to China on 29th May 2020 with a commemorative cancellation “Our Lady of the Sorrows Protect Us from Covid-19.”
June 2020
Monaco
Issued: 3rd June 2020
On 3rd June 2020, Monaco issued a stamp with the text “Ensemble Face au Covid-19 (All Facing Covid-19). The stamp depicts the face of Prince Albert and words from his message; Patience, Trust, Courage and Solidarity.
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
First Day Cover
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Issued: 9th June 2020
On 9th June 2020, Bosnia and Herzegovina issued a stamp to the value of 2,70 Bosnian Marks portraying a figure in protective clothing creating a wall against Covid-19.
First Day Cover
On 9th June 2020, the Association of Philatelists and Numismatics of Sarajevo issued a 0.90 Bosnian Mark non-official invalid Bosnia and Herzegovina stamp.
Greece
Issued: 16th June 2020
On 16th June 2020, Greece issued self adhesive stamps in booklet panes of four with hologram and entitled “We Stayed Home and Won-Thank You Everyone.”
A limited edition special collectible numbered album which includes: a Souvenir Sheet of 12 stamps; a special commemorative numbered First Day Cover with the relevant stamps affixed and franked; two special commemorative numbered postcards with the relevant stamps affixed and franked on each. The stamps on the envelopes and postcards are gold-foiled and franked with the special commemorative postmark of 16th June 2020. The numbering on the album, the covers and postcards are also gold-foiled. My album is No.725.
Greece also issued this limited edition special commemorative envelope for the ceremony of the Handover of the Olympic Flame on 19th March 2020, the subsequent cancelled games in Japan.
Curacao
Issued: 18th June 2020
On 18th June 2020, Curacao issued a Souvenir Sheet of three stamps with a face value of 600c each. All proceeds were donated to the fight against Covid-19
Souvenir Sheet
Oman
Issued: 22nd June 2020
On 22nd June 2020, Oman issued Souvenir Sheets of 2 and 4 stamps and a First Day Cover depicting some of the frontline workers keeping the country safe. 40% of the proceeds were donated to the Ministry of Health’s Endowment Fund which was established to keep the country safe during the pandemic.
Souvenir Sheet with two stamps
Souvenir Sheet with four stamps
First Day Cover
Czechslovakia
Issued: 23rd June 2020
On 23rd June 2020, Czechslovakia issued 6 protective masks, set on stamps. They were designed by the printer and university graphic designer Filip Heyduk.
Macao
Issued: 24th June 2020
On 24th June 2020, Macao an autonomous region off the south coast of China issued a stamp, sheetblock and First Day Cover to honour the frontline workers fighting the pandemic.
Sheet Block
First Day Cover
July 2020
Spain
Issued: 1st July 2020
On 1st July 2020, Spain issued a Presentation Folder entitled “Covid-Heroes of the 21st Century. Made of laminated cardboard, it pays tribute to those people who day after day fight to protect us and ensure our safety during the pandemic; Health, State Security Forces and Corps, Postal workers, Communications and Technologies and all those who fight on the frontline. The Presentation Folder has 24 stamps that illustrate all these professions and has a limited edition of 1,000.
Lebanon
Issued: 1st July 2020
On 1st July 2020, Lebanon issued a stamp to the value of 2,000 Lebanese pounds and entitled “Thank You to the Carer, Giver Heroes.”
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
Germany
Since 1st July 2020, 99 postal processing centers of the German Post used a prepared promotional machine cancellation with one or two advertising inserts with a single motif (heart hug) and texts relating to the fight against Covid-19. Translated from the German; “Together against Corona/Protect Yourself and Others.”
Brazil
Issued: 8th July 2020
On 8th July 2020, Brazil issued a miniature sheet of 6 stamps each to the value of 2,05 Brazilian Real.
The Philippines
Issued: 13th July 2020
On 13th July 2020, the Philippines issued a set of stamps in a booklet entitled “Frontline Workers-We Fight for You.”
First Day Cover
First Day Cover
Isle of Man
On 22nd July 2020, the Isle of Man issued a special limited edition cover to mark the First Inaugural Inter-Island Flight between the Isle of Man and Guernsey. It features special postmarks and is hand-signed by the pilot of the Aurigny Flight. Each cover of the 200 issued is numbered and complete with the stamps representing the jurisdictions which joined together to offer covid-free flights in wake of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. The insert has text from Mike J. Southall who was onboard the flight along with an image of the flight’s Welcome. My flight cover is No.134.
Isle of Man Stamp and Coin News: Issued No.170 Autumn 2020
Taiwan
Issued: 21st July 2020
On 21st July 2020, Taiwan a se-tenant stamp set with the text “All out against the Pandemic-Covid-19 We Shall Defeat-Taiwan Can Help.”
First Day Cover
On the official stamp launch date, 21st July 2020 the Chunghwa Post issued 4 Maximum Cards in a special Presentation Folder entitled “Taiwan Can Help.”
French Polynesia
Issued: 31st July 2020
On 31st July 2020, French Polynesia issued a stamp entitled “Vahine Masks-Coronavirus Covid-19.
Miniature Sheet
First Day Cover
August 2020
Singapore
Issued: 7th August 2020
On 7th August 2020, Singapore issued a 5 stamp set and miniature sheet entitled “Unity Against Covid-19.”
Set of Five stamps
Miniature Sheet
USA
A cachet for the cancellation of the Pennsic War event which is an annual American medieval camping event held by the Society for Creative Anachronism. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic no Pennsic War was held in 2020.
Greenland
Issued: 10th August 2020
On 10th August 2020, Greenland issued a stamp entitled “Battle Against Covid-19.”
Miniature Sheet
First Day Cover
United Nations
Issued: 11th August 2020
On 11th August 2020, the United Nations issued a set of 6 stamps entitled “We are all in this Together.” The stamps represent 6 key public health messages by the United Nations and the World Health Organisation to help stop the spread of Covid-19 namely; personal hygiene, myth busting, physical distance, spread kindness, know the symptoms and solidarity.
Set of Six Stamps
Two Miniature Sheets
Five First Day Covers
United Nations Philatelic Magazine No.362
Thailand
Issued: 14th August 2020
On 14th August 2020, Thailand issued a stamp set entitled “Together we fight against Covid-19.”
Block of Four Perforated Stamps
First Day Cover
Thailand special postmarks on two covers with Covid-19 stamps
Registered airmail letter from Thailand to Spain with a full sheet of 10 Covid-19 stamps.
Kosovo
Issued: 14th August 2020
On 14th August 2020, Kosovo issued a Miniature Sheet of six stamps.
Miniature Sheet
Alderney
Issued: 19th August 2020
On 19th August 2020, Alderney issued a set of 4 stamps, the winners of a children’s art competition. All proceeds were donated to the Alderney Helping Hands Project.
Set of Four Stamps
First Day Cover
Guernsey
Issued: 19th August 2020
On 19th August 2020, Guernsey issued 8 stamps entitled, “Guernsey Together,” The stamps were the winners of a children’s art competition and all proceeds were donated to 2 local charities.
Set of Eight Stamps
First Day Cover
Slovakia
Issued: 21st August 2020
On 21st August 2020, Slovakia issued a stamp with a mask as the central motif to highlight that it is the most important pieces of equipment in the fight against the spread of Covid-19.
First Day Cover
Colombia
Issued: 26th August 2020
On 26th August 2020, Colombia issued a stamp entitled, “Fight Against Covid-19.”
First Day Cover
September 2020
Singapore
Issued: 4th September 2020
On 4th September 2020, Singapore issued 6 stamps entitled,”The Soaper” which honour all the teachers and staff who went out of their way to keep students safe and learning during this time.
Set of Six Stamps
First Day Cover
Vatican
Issued: 10th September 2020
On 10th September 2020, the Vatican issued an Aerogramme entitled, “The Martyrs and Heroes of the Coronavirus.”
France
Issued: 11th September 2020
On 11th September 2020, France issued a booklet of 12 self adhesive stamps entitled, “Engages.”
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Issued: 21st September 2020
On 21st September 2020, Bosnia and Herzegovina issued a Miniature Sheet highlighting sport during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Miniature Sheet
First Day Cover
Serbia
Issued: 30th September 2020
On 30th September 2020, Serbia issued a Souvenir Sheet entitled, “The Joy of Europe.”
Souvenir Sheet
October 2020
Spain
Issued: 1st October 2020
On 1st October 2020, Spain issued a Souvenir Sheet and various postal items on the Covid-19 theme.
Souvenir Sheet
Postcard
First Day Cover
ATM Stamps
ATM stamp on an illustrated cover with a Special Covid-19 cancellation.
ATM stamp on an illustrated postcard with a Special Covid-19 cancellation.
Postcard with a Special Covid-19 Cancellation.
Special Face Mask issued by the Correos Philately Service
Four Exfilna Virtual Covers an event cancelled due to Covid-19.
Philately Service of Correos 2020 Magazine
Spanish Covid-19 Information Posters
Australia
Issued: 1st October 2020
On 1st October Australia issued a sheetlet of 10 greeting stamps entitled, “When we connect we feel Better.” Each stamp has a unique message on the back.
Portugal
Issued: 9th October 2020
On 9th October 2020, Portugal issued five stamps commemorating the 500th Anniversary of the Portuguese Postal Service. Several of the stamps illustrate protective measures against Covid-19.
Set of Five Stamps
First Day Cover
Special Coin Cover
Special Folder
Philatelic Catalogue of Portugal 2020
Sri Lanka
Issued: 9th October 2020
On 9th October 2020, Sri Lanka issued 4 stamps entitled, “Lets Rise Up-Defeating Covid-19.”
Blocks of Four Stamps
Souvenir Sheet
First Day Cover
Moldova
Issued: 13th October 2020
On 13th October 2020, Moldova issued a stamp entitled, “Prominent Personalities-Florence Nightingale” with an overprinted surcharge and mentioning this surcharge is for Covid-19 relief.
Full Sheetlet of Stamps
First Day Cover
Postcard
Egypt
Issued: 20th October 2020
On 20th October 2020, Egypt issued a stamp entitled, “White Army-You are in my Heart” in appreciation of the efforts of healthcare workers in the fight against Covid-19.
First Day Cover
Russia
Issued: 30th October 2020
On 30th October 2020, Russia issued a sheetlet of 8 stamps as part of the stamp series, “National Projects of Russia” and dedicated it to healthcare.
Sheetlet of Eight Stamps
First Day Cover
Postcard
This ticket was issued in 2020 to allow people who had recovered from Covid-19 to travel on the .Moscow Metro. It translates “Recovered from Covid-19-Donate Your Plasma.”
Austria
Issued: 30th October 2020
On 30th October 2020, Austria issued a stamp made from three-ply toilet paper featuring a baby elephant whose one metre length has been used in Austria as a reminder of the recommended social distancing.
Romania
In October 2020, this stationary cover was used in Romania and translates as “Stay at Home-We Deliver.”
November 2020
Mexico
Issued: 3rd November 2020
On 3rd November 2020, Mexico issued a stamp to the value of 7,00 pesos entitled, “Every Day Heroes.”
Block of Four Stamps
First Day Cover
Portugal
Issued: 6th November 2020
On 6th November 2020, Portugal issued a Souvenir Sheet entitled, “A Time for Hope.”
Mexico
Issued: 11th November 2020
On 11th November 2020, Mexico issued a stamp to the value of 7,00 pesos entitled, ” Tribute to Postal Workers.” Mexico reserves a special day for almost all trades. The 12th of November is Postman’s Day and more than 20,000 postal workers have the day off.
First Day Cover
Special Stamp Card
On 11th November 2020, Mexico also issued this set of five stamps entitled, “Day of the Postman-Covid-19.”
Set of Five Stamps
First Day Cover
Special Stamp Card
December 2020
Bahamas
Issued: 3rd December 2020
On 3rd December 2020, the Bahamas issued four Christmas stamps entitled, “We will Stay Safe.”
Set of Four Stamps
Tunisia
Issued: 17th December 2020
On 17th December 2020, Tunisia issued a stamp to the value of 3,00 Tunisian Dinar entitled, “The Fight against Covid-19 virus-Tunisia still Standing.”
Souvenir Sheet
First Day Cover
Information Leaflet
Remembering The 1916 Rising 