Netherlands to Issue 2026 Gold Ducats by Reservation Only

The 2026 Dutch Gold Ducat and Double Gold Ducat are appearing in another variation of their traditional, classic design. The first Gold Ducat with the legendary standing knight was struck in Holland under the United Provinces in 1586. The first Double Ducat came from the province of Friesland in 1612. The Dutch Kingdom has continued the practice since the 18^th century. The coin has always had the same basic obverse of a standing knight accompanied by an ornate inscribed tablet on the reverse. The only variations reflect artistic liberties taken by mint engravers. Today’s coins are based on the design of the engraver Johan Willem Marmé, the die cutter at the Utrecht Mint from 1763 to 1795. Marmé's present-day successors in Utrecht have taken his original design, characterized by a distinct helmet and accurate, detailed buttons on the knight's outfit, and adapted it to the requirements of 21st century minting.

The 2026 issues are the first in a four-year series that will highlight four medieval Dutch craft guilds of the early Ducat era, the blacksmiths' guild, the bakers' guild, the surgeons' guild, and the printers' guild. These professional associations worked to train apprentices, assure members reasonable standards of living, control competition, and ensure quality control. Guilds were abolished at the end of the 18th century. The focus in 2026 is on the blacksmiths' guild, one of the most important of all the medieval trade guilds. Its members were responsible for making weapons for the army, including armor, swords, and spears. They also made important tools for farmers, and of course, they were indispensable when it came to making horseshoes. The blacksmith’s guild in Utrecht also included gold and silversmiths, locksmiths, and needle makers.

The obverse shows the traditional knight in armor with arrows. The Latin phrase Concordia Res Parvae Crescunt is engraved: “Small things flourish by concord,” better known as “Unity makes Strength.” The Latin Mo. Aur. Reg. Belgii Ad Legem Imperii: “Gold coin of the Kingdom of the Netherlands by law of the Empire” is on the reverse. The blacksmiths' guild, represented by the hammer and pliers at the top of the reverse.

The coins are made of the long-time Dutch ducat standard of .983 fine gold. The single Gold Ducat weighs 3.494 grams and is 21 mm in diameter. It can be reserved for $914.95. The 26 mm Double Gold Ducat weighs 6.988 grams and costs $1,645.75. Both are in wood cases with numbered certificates.

The single Gold Ducat and its companion coin, the Double Gold Ducat, are both minted only in proof quality and are being offered on a reservation only basis until June 30. Sales will then close, and the mintage will be restricted by the Mint to the number of orders received. The issued amounts in 2025 were 675 Gold Ducats and only 530 Double Ducats.

The Mint advises that delivery will be in July and August. The coins will only be charged to buyers when they are shipped. 

Orders are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until June 30, 2026. For more information on the coins or to order visit www.coin-currency.com or contact the Coin & Currency Institute, P.O. Box 399, Williston, VT 05495. Toll-free 1-800-421-1866. Fax 802-536-4787. E-mail: mail@coin-currency.com. Add $9.75 per order for insured Priority Mail. Vermont residents should add 6% sales tax. Major credit cards and PayPal are accepted.