The Lion Dollar is an iconic trade coin! The coin has been part of our annual program since 2017. Thanks to the Royal Dutch Mint, the internationally loved Lion Dollar is circulating worldwide again. Why was the Lion Dollar so popular in the past? What different kinds of Lion Dollars are there? Dive into the history of this very special and beloved currency.
Origin of the Lion Dollar
Where does the Lion Dollar come from? The Lion Dollar is named after the image of the Dutch Lion on the obverse. This lion does not wear a crown and has no attributes in the paws. His tail is up. The Lion Dollar was minted in the Netherlands from the year 1575 with the aim of facilitating export trade.
The Lion Dollar abroad
Where did people pay with the Lion Dollars? The Lion Dollar originally contained 27.68 grams of silver (content 750/1000) and had a trade value between 36-42 nickels. It was cheaper for a Dutch merchant to pay a foreign debt in Lion Dollars instead of more expensive Rijksdaalders. Thus, the Lion Dollar became the currency of choice for foreign (sea) trade. Especially in America and Asia the Lion Dollar was widely used. Therefore the Official Restrikes are very popular overseas.
Types of Lion Dollars
Which types of Lion Dollars are there? Lion Dollars were issued by six of the seven Dutch provinces (only Groningen did not have a Lion Dollar) and some of the major cities. Each had its own mint, and its own Lion Dollar. The restrikes of the Royal Dutch Mint are always based on a unique Lion Dollar and are therefore different every year. The provinces of Zeeland, Gelderland, Utrecht, Holland and Overijssel already received an Official Restrike.
Restrikes of the Royal Dutch Mint
In the past, Lion Dollars were often struck on thin planchets that did not have the full thickness to fill the dies. An original Lion Dollar in good quality is therefore rare. The Official Restrikes of the Royal Dutch Mint are struck in today's trade specifications 1 troy ounce (31.1 grams) and 2 troy ounces (62.2 grams). They have a diameter of no less than 38.7 mm. In addition, they are minted in Proof-quality. All of this makes the Lion Dollar a true collector's item. Do you already have a Lion Dollar in your coin collection?