An Post, the national postal service of Ireland, has introduced its first series of traditional, physical stamps paired with non-fungible token (NFT) versions.
The stamps were designed by artist Kasia Oźmin using Mid-journey, a generative AI program that creates images based on text prompts.
Limited to just 10,000 units, the stamps showcase aspects of Irish life under the theme “Imagine Ireland.” Their designs feature elements of the Irish landscape, merging innovation with traditional rural themes.
Among the stamps is the ‘N’ national rate stamp, which covers postage within Ireland. This stamp aims to challenge views on housing and presents a forward-thinking solution. Another stamp, the ‘W’ international rate stamp, focuses on the future of transport for sending mail globally.
The NFT counterparts of the stamps are minted on the Polygon blockchain in partnership with the NFT platform Ciphers.me. Buyers will receive a PIN code that allows them to access the NFT on Ciphers. They can then store it in MetaMask or other compatible wallets.
Des Morley, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at An Post, commented on the launch, stating, “At An Post, we are applying digital innovation across our business – in this case, to one of our most renowned products, stamps. In a spirit of co-operation with International posts we are charting the impact of AI and Crypto by continuing to engage with and learn from emerging technologies.”
With this launch, An Post joins a growing number of postal services that have issued their own NFT stamp collections. In July, Guernsey Post released its own series of NFT stamps.
Similarly, both Belgian Post Group and Deutsche Post in Germany have introduced their versions of NFT stamps. Earlier in May, Ghana Post also linked commemorative stamps to NFTs, celebrating the 25th coronation anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and recognizing his role in Ghana’s progress.
