How Do You Spell TRESKILLING?

Pronunciation: [tɹˈɛskɪlɪŋ] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "treskilling" is [tɹˈɛskɪlɪŋ], [tɹˈɛskɪlɪŋ], [t_ɹ_ˈɛ_s_k_ɪ_l_ɪ_ŋ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

TRESKILLING Meaning and Definition

  1. Treskilling is a term derived from the Swedish language, primarily used in numismatics, which refers to a piece of currency that has been improperly or accidentally overprinted with a higher denomination. The term itself is composed of two parts: "tre," meaning "three," and "skilling," denoting a unit of currency. In essence, treskilling can be understood as the misprinting of a denomination that is three times higher compared to its original intended face value.

    This term is often associated with a specific stamp, known as the Swedish Treskilling Yellow, which is considered one of the rarest and most valuable stamps worldwide. The Swedish postal authorities mistakenly overprinted a batch of these stamps with a higher denomination of three skilling banco, instead of their intended three skilling stamp. Only one example of this misprint is known to exist, adding to its desirability and astronomical value in the philatelic world.

    Beyond being a numismatic or philatelic term, treskilling can also be used metaphorically to describe situations or actions that unexpectedly result in an outcome that is significantly higher or greater than anticipated or desired. This term's versatility allows it to transcend its initial usage in the world of currency and stamps and be adapted to describe various unexpected occurrences in everyday life or other domains.

Etymology of TRESKILLING

The word "treskilling" originates from Swedish and has an interesting etymology. It is derived from two components: "tre" which means "three" and "skilling" which was the name of the currency unit in Sweden before its adoption of the krona. The denomination "skilling" itself was derived from the Old Norse word "skíllingr" meaning "small coin". These coins were widely used in Scandinavia during the late medieval and early modern periods.

The term "treskilling" specifically refers to a Swedish stamp issued in 1855, which had the denomination of three skillings. This stamp holds significance as it is one of the most famous and valuable stamps in the world due to its rarity and historical importance.