The 1956 1 Gulden is a coin from the Netherlands, issued during the reign of Queen Juliana, who ruled from 1948 to 1980.
It is part of the regular circulation series minted between 1954 and 1968.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 1 Gulden (1 NLG) |
| Year | 1956 |
| Composition | 0.720 silver (72% silver, 28% copper) |
| Weight | 6.5 g |
| Diameter | 25.0 mm |
| Thickness | ~1.78 mm |
| Edge | Smooth with inscription “GOD ★ ZIJ ★ MET ★ ONS ★” (God be with us) |
| Mint | Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt (Royal Dutch Mint), Utrecht |
| Mintage | ~38,900,000 pieces |
The obverse shows a right-facing portrait of Queen Juliana with the inscription “JULIANA KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN.” The reverse displays the crowned coat of arms of the Netherlands and the denomination “1 G” with “NEDERLAND” written below. The date “1956” is split on either side of the coat of arms.
Monetary Status and Demonization
The coin was part of the Dutch decimal guilder system, which remained in use until the introduction of the euro.
As a circulation coin, after the guilder was demonetized, it became valuable only as a collectible or for its silver content, no longer legal tender.
Numismatic and Market Value
- Catalog reference: KM# 184.
- The 1956 mintage was ~38.9 million coins — a high number, which lowers its rarity value.
- Market value depends on condition (wear, luster, scratches, cleaning, etc.). Circulated examples usually sell for around $3.79–$7.35.
- Recent online listings show coins for roughly $7 + shipping, depending on condition.
- In European secondary markets, listings may ask about €20, though this varies with condition and seller reliability.
Thus, the 1956 1 Gulden is not considered “rare.” Its value mostly comes from its silver content (72%) and interest from collectors of Dutch coins.
Factors Affecting Collector Value
For collectors (beyond silver content), important factors include:
- Condition: Uncirculated or lightly worn coins fetch higher prices; wear, scratches, and harsh cleaning lower value.
- Authenticity: Coins should not be altered; the original edge inscription helps verify authenticity.
- Historical interest: Collectors of Dutch coins or post-war silver coins may value it more.
- Silver content: Guarantees a minimum value based on metal content.
Conclusion
The 1956 1 Gulden is a historical coin representing the era when the guilder was the Netherlands’ official currency. Minted in silver with a large mintage, it is an accessible collectible with classic design and historical value — ideal for those starting or expanding a collection of Dutch or 20th-century silver coins. However, it is not rare, and its market value is modest unless in exceptional condition.
