Iceland 169v2 Stamp: 1925 Issue, Facit Listed

Introduction: Unveiling the Icelandic Stamp Treasure

Hey stamp enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of Icelandic philately, specifically focusing on the Iceland 169v2 stamp, a gem from the 1925 issue. This particular stamp, characterized by its perf 14 x 15 and WM 114 watermark, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. It's a stamp that sparks curiosity, and rightfully so, as it has a unique story to tell. We'll be exploring every facet of this stamp, from its historical context to its distinguishing features, including its Facit listing and the intriguing detail of being not listed in the Scott catalog. The fact that it's Tollur cancelled adds another layer of mystique, indicating its genuine postal use. So, buckle up, guys, as we embark on this philatelic journey together!

Why is this stamp so special, you might ask? Well, it's not just a piece of paper with a picture on it. It's a tiny window into the past, reflecting the history, culture, and even the economy of Iceland during the 1920s. Stamps like this were the backbone of communication, carrying messages across distances and connecting people in a way that's hard to imagine in our digital age. The Iceland 169v2 stamp, with its specific perforations, watermark, and cancellation mark, provides valuable clues about its origin and usage. Moreover, the discrepancies between catalog listings, such as its presence in Facit and absence in Scott, make it a compelling subject for research and discussion among collectors.

In the following sections, we'll break down each element of this stamp – the year of issue, the perforation, the watermark, and the cancellation – and explain their significance. We'll also delve into the catalogs and understand why a stamp might be listed in one but not the other. Ultimately, our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the Iceland 169v2 stamp, making it easier for you to identify, appreciate, and perhaps even add to your own collection. So, let's get started and uncover the secrets of this captivating Icelandic stamp!

The Historical Context: Iceland in 1925

To truly appreciate the Iceland 169v2 stamp, it's crucial to understand the historical backdrop against which it was issued. 1925 was a significant year for Iceland, a period of transition and growth following its independence from Denmark in 1918. The nation was still young, forging its own identity and navigating the complexities of self-governance. This era saw Iceland grappling with economic challenges, developing its infrastructure, and solidifying its place on the world stage. The stamps issued during this time, including our focus stamp, served not only as postage but also as symbols of national pride and identity. They reflected the aspirations and the realities of a nation in progress.

Consider the postal system in 1925. It was a vital artery of communication, connecting remote communities across the rugged Icelandic landscape. Letters and packages were the primary means of conveying information and goods, making stamps an indispensable part of daily life. The Iceland 169v2 stamp would have been used on a wide range of mail, from personal correspondence to official government documents. Its journey, marked by the Tollur cancellation, speaks to its role in this network. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the stamp not just as a collectible item but as a tangible link to the past.

Furthermore, the designs featured on Icelandic stamps of this era often depicted national symbols, landscapes, and historical figures. These images were carefully chosen to promote a sense of unity and national identity. While we don't have the specific design details for the Iceland 169v2 stamp immediately available in this context, understanding this broader theme helps us appreciate the cultural significance of these stamps. They were more than just postage; they were miniature works of art that celebrated Iceland's heritage and aspirations. As we delve deeper into the specifics of the 1925 issue, we'll gain a clearer picture of how this particular stamp fits into the larger narrative of Icelandic history and philately.

Decoding the Technical Details: Perf 14 x 15, WM 114

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty details that make the Iceland 169v2 stamp unique: its perf 14 x 15 and WM 114 designation. These seemingly technical specifications are actually crucial identifiers, helping collectors distinguish this stamp from others that may appear similar at first glance. Let's break down what each of these terms means and why they matter.

Perf 14 x 15 refers to the perforation of the stamp. Perforations are the small holes punched between individual stamps on a sheet, allowing them to be easily separated. The numbers 14 x 15 indicate the number of perforations per two centimeters along each side of the stamp. In this case, there are 14 perforations per 2cm on one side and 15 perforations per 2cm on the other. This seemingly minor difference can be a key distinguishing feature for identifying specific stamp varieties. To accurately measure perforations, collectors use a perforation gauge, a specialized tool that helps determine the number of perforations per 2cm. Understanding perforation differences is essential for correctly identifying and valuing stamps, as even slight variations can significantly impact their rarity and value.

Next, we have WM 114, which refers to the watermark. A watermark is a design or pattern impressed into the paper during the manufacturing process. It's visible when the paper is held up to the light or when a watermark fluid is applied. Watermarks serve as a security feature, preventing counterfeiting, and also as an identifier, helping to distinguish different paper types and stamp varieties. WM 114 is a specific watermark designation within the Facit catalog, and it's crucial to consult this catalog to understand the exact design and orientation of this watermark. Identifying the watermark correctly is another critical step in authenticating and classifying the Iceland 169v2 stamp. Without these specific characteristics, you might end up misidentifying a similar stamp, which could lead to incorrect valuation or even purchasing a forgery. So, always pay close attention to these technical details!

Facit vs. Scott: Navigating the Catalog Discrepancies

A particularly intriguing aspect of the Iceland 169v2 stamp is its listing in the Facit catalog but not in the Scott catalog. This discrepancy raises a fundamental question: why are some stamps listed in one catalog and not another? To understand this, we need to delve into the world of stamp catalogs and their methodologies.

Scott and Facit are two of the most widely recognized stamp catalogs in the world, each with its own system for classifying and numbering stamps. While they both aim to provide comprehensive listings, they often differ in their scope, criteria for inclusion, and numbering systems. These differences can lead to situations where a stamp is recognized and listed in one catalog but omitted from another. Several factors can contribute to these discrepancies. One factor might be the catalog's focus. Some catalogs specialize in certain regions or countries, while others aim for broader coverage. Another factor is the criteria used for defining a distinct stamp issue. Differences in perforation, watermark, color shade, or printing methods might lead one catalog to list a stamp variety separately while another considers it a minor variation and includes it under a broader listing.

In the case of the Iceland 169v2 stamp, its absence from the Scott catalog might be due to Scott's specific criteria for listing stamps. It's possible that Scott considers the variations that distinguish the 169v2 from other stamps in the series to be too minor to warrant a separate listing. On the other hand, Facit, with its more granular approach, might recognize these variations as significant and deserving of their own catalog number. This doesn't necessarily mean that the stamp is less valid or valuable; it simply reflects the different editorial policies of the two catalogs. For collectors, understanding these catalog discrepancies is essential for accurately identifying and valuing their stamps. Consulting multiple catalogs and resources can provide a more complete picture of a stamp's history and significance. When a stamp is listed in Facit but not Scott, it often becomes a topic of discussion among collectors, sparking further research and debate about its classification and rarity.

Tollur Cancelled: A Sign of Genuine Postal Use

The final piece of our puzzle is the Tollur cancellation mark found on the Iceland 169v2 stamp. This cancellation mark is more than just a smudge on the stamp; it's a vital piece of evidence that tells us the stamp was actually used for postal purposes. Understanding the significance of a Tollur cancellation helps us appreciate the stamp's journey through the Icelandic postal system and adds to its historical narrative.

Tollur is an Icelandic word meaning