Ireland – the Declaration of Irish Independence 1916 broadside poster measuring approx 15x10 ins, bearing the wording of the Declaration as issued during the Easter Rising in Dublin 1916. This is believed to be the only intact copy of this version of the Proclamation in existence. It conforms in every respect to the only other known copy of this version, a copy which has significant damage and which is kept in the O’Hegarty Collection at the Spencer Research Library in the University of Kansas in the USA. This includes the considerable number of typographical errors and other blemishes in printing which are a feature of the original printings of this most historic document. The present copy however has two significant further features: the Kansas copy is printed on paper without a watermark. The present copy has the watermark of Swift Brook Paper Mill of Saggart, South Dublin County. In addition, the present copy bears on the reverse at the bottom edge in three lines the hand stamp in a faded black ink the legend ‘Fitzpatrick, 12 Cathedral St. Dublin’. The Proclamation has a few original folds and a few minor creases and small tears, however, it is in remarkably good condition considering its age and history. The provenance of this example is that it was brought back to England by a British soldier serving in Dublin during the rebellion and civil war. It has only just been found in his effects. The poster has been folded several times, most probably by the soldier who would have been in serious trouble if found with it in his possession. When folded it is of a size which could be easily concealed in an Army pocket book, or the pocket of a uniform. It also bears pin holes in the corners, suggesting that at some time it was displayed – opening up the possibility that it was, in fact, displayed either during the rising or soon after. For a fuller description of this item, please see the special feature on our website, and bidders are also urged to view a full academic examination of the printing of the Proclamation which can be seen if you go to www.typefoundry.blogspot.co.uk/2010/01/images where you will find an image of the Kansas University copy of the Proclamation for comparison. Printed copies of this article will be available on request.