Kategorie: News
A symbol of unity and maritime heritage
On 22 August 2024, the unveiling of the designs for the new Caribbean guilder marked an important milestone in the shared history of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. A new currency that embodies both the marine ecosystems surrounding these islands and the unity between the two nations.
The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) held simultaneous events on both islands to unveil the new banknotes and coins: the design of the Caribbean guilder is inspired by the fascinating underwater world that surrounds Curaçao and Sint Maarten. These are regions known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and diverse marine life. This is intentional, of course; the marine ecosystems of these islands are crucial not only for the environment but also for the local economy. This is especially true for marine tourism, such as diving, snorkeling and boat charter services. All activities that are essential for tourism, a lifeline for the islands.
This important sector provides jobs, supports small businesses and generates considerable income for the hospitality industry. The decision to highlight the underwater world on the Caribbean guilder serves as a reminder of the symbiotic relationship between the islands' economies and the health of their marine environment.
A currency that reflects unity and diversity
The Caribbean guilder is more than just a new currency. It is a symbol of the unity and shared destiny of Curacao and Sint Maarten within their monetary union. The banknotes and coins also feature marine life. Fish and other sea creatures know no borders. The images remind us that, despite their different histories and cultures, Curacao and Sint Maarten are united by common goals and aspirations.
Each banknote in the Caribbean guilder series is a vibrant tapestry of colours and images that celebrate both the natural and cultural heritage of the islands. The front side of the banknotes is dedicated to the diverse marine life found in Curacao and Sint Maarten, while the reverse side depicts important historical and cultural landmarks that reflect the essence of each island.
Yellow Cg10 banknote
The front of the predominantly yellow Cg10 banknote depicts the grey angel fish and the queen conch. These images symbolise the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean Sea. The back of the banknote shows the historic lighthouse on Klein Curaçao. The lighthouse is an important landmark that has guided seafarers for generations and symbolises safety.
Blue Cg20 banknote
The front of the blue Cg20 banknote features the Spotted Eagle Ray and the Yellow Cowry, representing the vibrant underwater life. The back of the banknote shows a view of the Simpson Bay Lagoon, an ecologically unique area that is an important part of Sint Maarten's natural heritage.
Green Cg 50 banknote
The green Cg 50 banknote features the green sea turtle and the popular tellin mussel. These two animals are essential to the region's marine ecosystem. The reverse side shows the beach of Kenepa Grandi, one of the most unspoilt and popular beaches in Curaçao.
Red Cg100 banknote
The red Cg100 banknote features the parrotfish and the musical shell (Voluta musica). These images reflect the colourful and diverse underwater world. The reverse side of the banknote shows the remarkable courthouse of Sint Maarten. The courthouse is an important symbol of the island's legal and governmental heritage.
Purple Cg200 banknote
The front of the purple Cg200 banknote shows a seahorse and a shell. The back shows the Queen Emma Bridge, a landmark that connects the two sides of Willemstad, Curaçao. It symbolises the connection between the past and the present and the unity of the people on the island.
The coins: a dual tribute to shared heritage
The guilder coins of the two island-nation issuers are similar, but have different designs that reflect the unique identity of Curacao and Sint Maarten. These coins will be interchangeable on both islands. This emphasises the common monetary system and the close ties between the two nations.
Cg 5 and Cg 1 guilder coins
The obverse of these coins features the effigy of King Willem-Alexander along with the inscription ‘Koning der Nederlanden’ (King of the Netherlands). The reverse is different for each island.
The version for Sint Maarten shows the national coat of arms and green sea turtles. The version for Curaçao shows the island surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, with waves forming the word ‘Curaçao’ and two green sea turtles.
Lower-denomination coins (1ct, 5ct, 10ct, 25ct and 50ct)
These coins show the orange blossom on the front, a symbol of the island's natural beauty. On the back, either ‘Curaçao’ or ‘Sint Maarten’ is written, with the denomination value between the Caribbean sky and the waves.
The design is also embellished with a pearl constellation. It represents the date 10/10/10, when both countries became independent within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The popular tellin shells, together with the waves and pearls, create a connection to the underwater world depicted on the banknotes.
The development of the new Caribbean guilder
The development of the Caribbean guilder was a long and collaborative process. The introduction of the Caribbean guilder marks the beginning of a new chapter in the financial history of both countries. As the CBCS works towards the official introduction of the new currency next year, efforts are being made to ensure a smooth transition from the current Netherlands Antillean guilder (NAf) to the Caribbean guilder.
Transition
In preparation for the introduction of the Caribbean guilder, the CBCS has launched several initiatives to help the public understand and accept the new currency. These include the mobile application ‘My Caribbean Guilder’, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. This app provides detailed information about the new banknotes and coins, including their security features. It also offers practical tips for recognising genuine banknotes and coins. This will help to prevent counterfeiting.
In addition, the CBCS has set up a dedicated website to serve as a comprehensive resource for everything related to the Caribbean guilder.
The importance of marine conservation
The decision to depict marine life on the Caribbean guilder is not just an aesthetic one. It is also a statement about the importance of marine conservation. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse aquatic life depicted on the banknotes and coins are a reminder of the fragility of these ecosystems and the need to protect them. Coral reefs, in particular, are threatened by climate change, pollution and overfishing. As vital habitats for marine life and important coastal protections, their preservation is critical to the health of the oceans and the sustainability of local economies.
For more information on the Caribbean guilder and up-to-date information on its launch, visit the dedicated CBCS website.
The journey to a new currency is one of collaboration, conservation and celebration. A journey that Curacao and Sint Maarten are taking together, guided by the bright colours and diverse life in the world under the waves.