Netherlands 1 Gulden Coin (Juliana Era)
Coin/Bullion · Royal Dutch Mint (Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt), Utrecht
Pattern: Queen Juliana Series (1948-1980)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Dutch Mint (Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt), Utrecht
Material
Nickel (Post-1967 issue). Note: Earlier versions (1954-1967) were .720 silver; this 1979 example contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 25 mm; Thickness: 1.8 mm; Weight: 6.0 grams.
Description
A standard circulation 1 Gulden coin from the Netherlands depicting the national coat of arms. While appearing like silver to the untrained eye, the 1979 issue is composed of pure nickel, as silver was phased out of Dutch circulating currency in 1967 due to rising metal prices.
Key Features
1979 date, '1 G' denomination, crowned coat of arms, nickel composition, milled edge.
Material & Composition
Nickel (Post-1967 issue). Note: Earlier versions (1954-1967) were .720 silver; this 1979 example contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated finish with relief design. Features the crowned coat of arms of the Netherlands with the rampant lion on the reverse, and a beaded border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date: 1979; Mint Master Mark: Cock (M.T. Brouwer); Mint Mark: Caduceus (Utrecht). Denomination: 1G (Gulden). Legend: 'NEDERLAND'.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage, machine-milled edges.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting/trimming prevention; legal tender currency (formerly).
Handle & Grip Details
None (not applicable for coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality government-grade mass production; uniform striking and consistent edge reeding characteristic of the Utrecht Mint.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic luster of nickel vs. silver, weight-to-diameter ratio, correct 1979 date font, and specific Mint Master's cock mark for that period.
Origin & Manufacturing
Netherlands, Utrecht Mint.
Era & Period
Post-WWII / Cold War Era (Juliana's reign 1948-1980).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1979.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Guilder' currency era before the Euro adoption in 2002; a staple of Dutch daily commerce for the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Visible minor surface scratches, slight tarnish/oxidation film, but design remains crisp. Grade: Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
Nominal value: $0.25 - $1.00 USD. Low numismatic value due to high mintage (approx. 33 million) and lack of silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent nickel oxidation; avoid abrasive cleaners which strip the original mint luster. Store in an acid-free coin flip.
Similar Pieces
1967 Silver 1 Gulden (identical design but .720 silver); 1980 1 Gulden (similar but often commemorative or transitional).
Interesting Facts
This specific design by Ludwig Oswald Wenckebach was used for decades; however, 1979 was one of the last years before Queen Beatrix took the throne and changed the coinage design in 1982.