Iceland Stamps
Iceland, a North Atlantic island nation situated in Northern Europe, developed its postal system under Danish rule before achieving full sovereignty. Its postal history reflects a transition from Danish administration to independent nationhood, marked by joining the Universal Postal Union in 1918.
- Issued stamps
- 1873–present
- Region
- Europe, Northern Europe
- Currency
- ISK
- Languages
- Icelandic, Danish, English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- Denmark
About Iceland stamps
Icelandic stamps predominantly feature the Icelandic language, often alongside Danish or English during earlier periods. The country's remote geography and unique political evolution have resulted in a distinct series of issues reflecting its cultural heritage and modern statehood.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- ÍSLAND
- ISLAND
How to identify Iceland stamps
- Look for 'ÍSLAND' as the country name, often prominently displayed.
- Early issues (pre-1900s) often feature portraits of Danish monarchs.
- Denominations are typically in Aurar (øre) or Krónur (kr.) after 1907.
- Many stamps feature unique Icelandic landscapes, wildlife (e.g., falcons), and cultural motifs.
Popular series
-
First Issues (Skilling and Aurar)
1873-1902
The initial stamps of Iceland, featuring King Christian IX of Denmark, denominated in Skilling and Aurar.
-
King Christian X Issues
1920s-1940s
A long-running series depicting King Christian X, often with various surcharges and overprints reflecting political changes.
-
Republic Issues
1944-present
Stamps issued after Iceland's declaration of independence as a republic, featuring national symbols, landscapes, and cultural themes.
-
Sagas and Folklore
Various
Numerous series dedicated to Icelandic sagas, folklore, and mythological creatures, showcasing the nation's rich literary heritage.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- €0.20–€5
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€5,000+
Early issues, particularly those with rare cancellations or errors, can be highly valuable. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, though complete sets or specific varieties can fetch higher prices. Condition is paramount for value.
Catalogs. Iceland stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Iceland stamps
Iceland stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal administration of Iceland, starting in 1873 when it was under Danish rule, and continuing after its full independence in 1944. They reflect the nation's unique history, culture, and stunning natural environment.
The value of Iceland stamps varies significantly. Early issues, especially those from the 19th and early 20th centuries, and stamps with errors or rare cancellations, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of Euros. More modern definitive and commemorative stamps are generally affordable, often costing less than €5, but complete sets or specific varieties can still hold good value.
You can identify Iceland stamps by looking for the country name 'ÍSLAND' printed on them. Early issues may feature Danish monarchs, while later stamps often depict Icelandic landscapes, historical figures, or cultural themes. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Iceland stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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