1987 Netherlands 5 Gulden (Guldens) Queen Beatrix / Juliana & Bernhard Commemorative Coin
QUICK FACTS
Categories
Era
1980s
Origin
🇳🇱 Netherlands
Brand
Royal Dutch MintArtist/Maker
Bruno Ninaber van Eyben
Rarity
Ordinary (3/10)
Discovered
Jan 14, 2026
1 months ago
DESCRIPTION
This is a commemorative 5 Gulden coin from the Netherlands, issued in 1987. The obverse features a stylized portrait of Queen Beatrix, with the legend 'KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN' (Queen of the Netherlands). The reverse, which is the focus of the image provided, commemorates the 50th 'JAAR' (year) of the marriage of Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhard. The design includes their profiles and the date "1987". This particular piece appears to be made of a non-precious metal, likely copper-nickel, given its general appearance and the typical composition of Dutch circulation commemoratives of this era.
CULTURAL ECHOES
Where This Object Echoes
British coinage frequently features royal portraits and commemorates significant royal events, such as jubilees and weddings, mirroring the Dutch tradition.
Many European monarchies, including those of Belgium, Spain, and Scandinavian countries, issue commemorative coins to celebrate significant national and royal milestones.
Ritual & Ceremonial Use
- •The collection of commemorative coins as a hobby and a way to hold a tangible piece of national history.
- •Gift-giving of new commemorative coins to mark birthdays or significant events for individuals.
Meaning Through Time
Primarily served as legal tender currency for transactions, with commemorative value secondary.
Transitioned from legal tender to a collectible item, representing the former Dutch currency and a historical event.
HISTORICAL STORY
DID YOU KNOW?
The Dutch Gulden was replaced by the Euro on January 1, 2002, making these coins historical artifacts of a past national currency.
Queen Juliana's reign was notable for her progressive social views and her informality, often seen cycling with her children, which endeared her to the Dutch people.
MATERIAL & CONDITION
Surface
The surface exhibits a generally reflective, silvery-white appearance, characteristic of a copper-nickel composition. There is some toning or environmental residue, particularly visible around the raised design elements and near the rim, suggesting exposure and circulation. The design details, while present, show signs of handling wear.
Weight & Feel
Based on its size and typical composition for a 5 Gulden coin, it would feel moderately substantial in hand, likely weighing around 10-12 grams, consistent with a circulating commemorative strike.
Condition
The coin shows evidence of circulation, with general wear across the high points of the design on both the obverse and reverse. There's some noticeable discoloration or light toning, particularly yellowish-brown residue in recessed areas, which could be environmental or minor attempts at cleaning. This is not a mint state piece.
RARITY ANALYSIS
Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.
Typical Characteristics
- Moderate production runs
- Common at estate sales
- Entry-level collectibles
EXPERT ANALYSIS
Numismatist
I have high confidence in the identification of this coin's country, denomination, and commemorative event based on the clear legends, dates, and stylistic elements. The only minor uncertainties relate to precise condition and metal composition, which are typical from photographic analysis alone.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Clearly visible date '1987'.
- 2Denomination '5 JAAR' (referring to the 5 Gulden value, not 5 years) and 'GULDEN'.
- 3Legends 'JULIANA & BERNHARD' and 'KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN' identify the involved persons and country.
- 4Stylized portraits consistent with Dutch coinage of the period.
- 5Overall metallic appearance and wear typical of circulating copper-nickel issues.
UNCERTAINTIES
- •The specific metal composition cannot be definitively confirmed without an in-hand examination and weigh-in, though copper-nickel is highly likely.
- •The extent of any cleaning or environmental damage is hard to judge accurately from these images, impacting potential grading.
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- →Provide a clear, high-resolution image of the coin's edge to check for reeding or lettering.
- →Measure the coin's diameter and thickness.
- →Provide the weight of the coin in grams.
- →A magnet test would confirm if it's steel or a non-ferrous alloy like copper-nickel.
ESTIMATED VALUE
Updated: Feb 26, 2026
- Market comparables from auctions & retail
- Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
- Current collector demand & trends
- Low = quick sale, high = patient seller
For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.
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