Centenary of Broadcasting in Ireland – 2026

This stamp celebrates a historic milestone in Irish cultural life and the triumphant evolution of broadcasting over the last century in Ireland. The first radio broadcasting station in the Irish Free State, 2RN, went on air on New Year’s Day 1926. Television followed on New Year’s Eve 1961 when Teilifís Éireann (later called RTÉ Television) began broadcasting. 

The stamp features a striking ‘antenna’ surrounded by transmission signals radiating across the nation, by Dublin design agency Red &Grey.  A  limited-edition first day cover envelope was also issued on 15th January.  

From its inception to its current role as the national public service media, RTÉ has remained at the heart of the story of broadcasting in Ireland. Today, RTÉ’s video, audio, and digital services, alongside the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, inform, engage and entertain a diverse global Irish community. This centenary milestone is the story of the evolution of a nation as much as it is the story of public broadcasting on the island. 

This is the First stamp issued by Ireland in 2026

Date of issue 15 Jan 2026 Denomination – N -No face value ,1.65 Euros on day of Issue Print qty – 74,000