5 gulden 1966
Market Prices
51 salesAbout This Note
This Netherlands 5 Gulden from 1966 represents a beautifully preserved example of mid-20th century Dutch currency, graded PMG 67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated). The note features a striking portrait of Joost van den Vondel on the obverse and an architectural rendering of the Amsterdam Play-house on the reverse, both rendered in elegant green and multi-color tones on gray paper. The exceptional condition—with crisp paper, sharp printing, no visible wear, creases, or stains—combined with its cultural significance makes this a notable specimen for collectors of European banknotes.
Common. While this is a well-preserved example graded PMG 67, the 5 Gulden 1966 (Pick-90a) is a regularly issued banknote from a major European central bank with substantial print runs. Secondary market data shows consistent availability at modest prices; comparable PMG 67 examples have sold between $76–$175 on eBay over the past decade, with most circulated examples trading in the $3–$20 range. The note presents no known major varieties, short print runs, or recall issues that would elevate its rarity status.
Issued on 26 April 1966 by Nederlandsche Bank, this note commemorates Joost van den Vondel, the celebrated Dutch Golden Age playwright and poet (1587-1679), whose portrait dominates the obverse. The reverse depicts the Amsterdam Play-house, connecting the note's imagery to the vibrant cultural heritage of the Dutch Republic and Netherlands' artistic legacy during a period of post-war economic recovery and cultural pride in the 1960s.
The obverse features a left-facing profile portrait of Joost van den Vondel, the prominent 17th-century Dutch playwright, positioned on the right side of the note wearing period clothing with characteristic curled hair and facial features. The composition employs a cream/beige background with dominant green and gray tones. Decorative circular geometric patterns with ornate designs appear at the bottom, serving both aesthetic and security purposes. The reverse showcases a classical architectural complex featuring the Amsterdam Play-house, rendered in green and earth tones with detailed depiction of columns, a central domed structure with triangular pediment, and a courtyard setting. Two circular geometric seals appear at the bottom center, with matching decorative circular patterns throughout the lower section. The note incorporates a watermark featuring an inkwell, quill pen, and scroll—fitting iconography for a note commemorating a literary figure.
FRONT SIDE: 'DE NEDERLANDSCHE BANK / VIJF GULDEN' (The Netherlands Bank / Five Guilders); Large denomination numerals '5' positioned on left and right edges; 'AMSTERDAM 26 APRIL 1966' (date and place of issue); 'SECRETARIS' (Secretary) and 'PRESIDENT' (President) above signature lines; 'VONDEL' identifying the portrayed historical figure. BACK SIDE: Serial number '3AH073685' positioned in upper left and lower right; Large denomination '5' in upper right and lower left corners; Fine print security text in lower right corner (content not legible in image).
Intaglio engraving, printed by Johan Enschede, Netherlands (JEZ printer code). The sharp detail in both the portrait and architectural elements, combined with the fine geometric circular patterns and ornate printing throughout, are characteristic of high-quality intaglio bank note production. The multicolor printing and fine security print demonstrate the sophisticated printing capabilities of this period's state printer.
Pick catalog 90a represents the standard variety for this 1966 issue. The observed serial number 3AH073685 with 'A' prefix and two-letter designation is consistent with standard Nederlandsche Bank numbering of the period. No overprints, signature variations, or known major varieties are reported for this Pick number. The printer designation 'JEZ' (Johan Enschede, Zwolle) is the standard printer for this issue.
