Norse Mythologies On Stamps

Norse mythology is the rich collection of myths, legends and beliefs of the ancient peoples of Scandinavia, especially the Vikings. It tells of a complex world inhabited by gods, giants, dwarfs, elves and other supernatural beings, and includes stories of creation, heroic deeds, conflicts between divine powers and the eventual destruction and renewal of the world at Ragnarök. Among its best-known figures are Odin, the wise and powerful ruler of the gods; Thor, the mighty god of thunder; Loki, the clever and unpredictable trickster; and Freyja, the goddess associated with love, fertility and magic. These myths, preserved mainly in the medieval Icelandic Eddas and sagas, have had a lasting influence on European literature, art and modern popular culture.

Please share here your Norse mythology stamps and items.

Odin is the chief god in Norse mythology, associated with wisdom, knowledge, poetry, magic, war and the dead, and he is said to have sacrificed one of his eyes in exchange for a drink from the well of wisdom. He rules from Asgard and is accompanied by the ravens Huginn and Muninn, who fly across the world and bring him information, while fallen warriors chosen for Valhalla are gathered under his protection.

Odin riding on Sleipnir, the eight legged horse, issued by Iceland on March 26, 2004.

Njord and Balder

Njord is one of the Vanir gods and lives at Noatun by the sea. He is the god of the sea, winds, seafaring and fishing, and is also associated with wealth and prosperity. People travelling by sea or going fishing pray to him for favourable winds and a safe journey.

Balder, the son of Odin and Frigg, is the fairest and most beloved of the gods. The malicious Loki discovers that mistletoe is the only thing that can harm Balder. He gives a mistletoe dart to Hod, Balder's blind brother, and guides him in throwing it at Balder, killing him.

Njord and Balder, issued by Norway on March 26, 2004.

A booklet from Sweden depicting gods and goddesses. Their names are on the stamps, but for those who don't read runes they are (top to bottom): Freia, Heimdal, Thor, Frei, and Odin.