Netherlands: Lucrative Historic Silk Trade Privy Mark Features on 2024-Dated Proof Gold Ducats

Mints in the Netherlands have struck Golden Ducats almost continually since their use commencing in the 16th century, contemporary ducats are based on original designs of that time and from the latter part of the 18th century. Today, they are commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of finance and are regarded as a legal form of Dutch currency even after the formal adoption of the Euro currency in 2002. In 2022 a new series of Golden Ducats was launched, the theme explores Dutch trade history which was prevalent from ports in Europe, Africa, the Americas and in many parts of Asia. The series which concludes in 2025 highlights a different commodity which played an important role in Dutch trade and for 2024, the trade in silk is featured. During the 17th century, The Netherlands, better known as the Dutch Republic experienced an unprecedented period of growth and advancement in science and art, but also and more importantly in trade. By sailing to the Far East among other places, new products such as exotic spices, foods and other products were introduced to the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.

One particular trade route of the Dutch ships led them to Java, in present-day Indonesia via the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa and India. On these routes, several trading posts where settled, which eventually created a huge network administered by the Dutch East India Company. Silk specifically was a very important textile that was mostly shipped from India to the Dutch Republic. This precious product was resold in Europe, but was also frequently purchased by the Dutch elite and nobility who had exquisite items of clothing made from it. In the beginning of the 17th century, silk was in very high demand and ultimately generated significant amounts of revenue.

The obverse design of the Golden Ducats for 2024, features a standing knight in armour holding a sword in his right hand, resting on his right shoulder and seven arrows in his left hand. The motif was designed by engraver Johan Willem Marmé, the engraver of the provincial Mint of Utrecht from 1763 until 1795. The Knight is encircled by the legend in Latin CONCORDIA RES PARVAE CRESCUNT which translates as Small things flourish in harmony. Shown as two separate digits is the year of issue 20 and 24 placed on each side of the standing Knight. The reverse side features the ornately framed Latin inscription MO. AUR. REG. BELGII AD LEGEM IMPERII which is translated as Gold coin of the Kingdom of the Netherlands by law of the Empire. Below the inscription is the privy mark or symbol of a bolt of silk denoting its lucrative trade for more than two centuries.

Available from the 1^st May, the ducat and double ducat proof coins are each encapsulated and presented in custom crafted polished hardwood cases, accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please visit the online webshop of the Royal Dutch Mint.