Iceland 3 Aurar Blue "Þrir" Overprint

Iceland · 1897 · 3 Aurar

This stamp is an overprint on the 1882 5 Aurar green numeral issue. The original value was struck through with two horizontal bars and the new value, "Þrir" (Three), was printed in blue. This provisional issue was created to address a shortage of 3 Aurar stamps.

Provisional overprints like this were common in the late 19th century as postal administrations adapted to changing rates and managed stamp stock shortages before new printings could be arranged.