1955 Dutch 1 Guilder Coin: Composition and Value

The 1955 Netherlands 1 Guilder (1 G) coin is not silver. It's struck in cupro-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel)—a durable, silver-colored alloy containing no precious metal.

Specifications

• Composition: Cupro-nickel
• Weight: 6.5 grams
• Diameter: 25 mm
• Thickness: 1.8 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintage: ~47.6 million (1955)

Design

Obverse: Queen Juliana portrait facing right, "JULIANA KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN"
Reverse: Crowned Dutch coat of arms (lion with sword and arrows), "1 G", "1955", "NEDERLAND"

Silver Guilder Context

The Netherlands last struck circulating silver 1 Guilder coins in 1930 (.720 fine silver). Post-WWII, rising silver costs forced transition to cupro-nickel (1954 onward). The 1955 issue represents this new base-metal standard.

Collector Value

As a common circulation coin:

• Circulated: €0.50-€2.00
• Uncirculated: €5-€15
• Proof (rare): €50+

No bullion value. Historical interest lies in its representation of post-war Dutch monetary reform and Queen Juliana's reign (1948-1980).

Identification Tip

A magnet will not attract cupro-nickel (non-magnetic), unlike nickel-plated steel coins from other eras. Weight (6.5g) and distinct "ring" when dropped on hard surface help distinguish from later issues.