Iceland 1873 Official Stamp, Crown and Posthorn

Iceland · 1873 · 4 skilling

This is Iceland's first official stamp, intended for use by government departments. The design features a large numeral '4' indicating the denomination, surmounted by a crown and framed by a posthorn, a classic symbol of postal service. The inscription 'Í Gildi' at the top translates to 'Valid', with 'Þjónustu Frímerki' below meaning 'Service Stamp'.

Issued in 1873, this stamp marks the beginning of Iceland's postal independence, coinciding with the first regular postage stamps issued for the territory, which was then under Danish rule.