1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden Silver Coin – King William III – NGC AU Details

1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden – King William III Silver Crown – NGC AU Details

The1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden Silver Coin represents an important period in Dutch monetary history during the reign of King William III.

Issued in the mid-nineteenth century, this large silver denomination combines the traditional artistic style of European royal coinage with the distinctive heraldic symbols of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The coin was produced during an era of industrial expansion, growing international trade, and major changes in European politics and commerce.

ItsNGC AU Details certification identifies a genuine example retaining About Uncirculated-level detail, making it attractive to collectors who appreciate well-preserved historical silver coins.

The Netherlands Under King William III

King William III became King of the Netherlands in 1849 following the death of his father, William II.

His reign lasted until 1890 and coincided with significant political and economic developments.

The Netherlands was expanding its commercial and industrial activities while maintaining an important position in international trade.

Dutch maritime commerce, colonial connections, and European financial institutions played major roles in the country's economy.

The 1858 2½ Gulden was issued during this period of economic development and reflects the established monetary traditions of the Dutch kingdom.

Obverse – Portrait of King William III

The obverse features a left-facing portrait ofKing William III.

The surrounding inscription reads:

WILLEM III KONING DER NED. G.H.V.L.

The inscription identifies William III as King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

The portrait reflects the formal engraving style characteristic of nineteenth-century European royal coinage.

The detailed facial features, hair, and surrounding lettering contribute to the coin's classic appearance.

Reverse – Crowned Dutch Coat of Arms

The reverse features the crowned coat of arms of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The central design includes the Dutch heraldic lion holding a sword and arrows within a decorated shield.

Important design elements include:

  • Crowned Dutch royal coat of arms

  • Heraldic lion

  • Sword and bundle of arrows

  • Denomination2½ G

  • Date1858

  • Decorative wreath

The heraldic imagery represents the authority and national identity of the Dutch monarchy.

Technical Specifications

  • Country: Netherlands

  • Year: 1858

  • Denomination: 2½ Gulden

  • Ruler: King William III

  • Metal: Silver

  • Purity: .945 Fine Silver

  • Standard Weight: 25 grams

  • Actual Silver Weight: 23.625 grams

  • Actual Silver Weight in Troy Ounces: Approximately 0.7596 oz

  • Diameter: Approximately 38 mm

  • Edge: Lettered

  • Certification: NGC

  • Grade: AU Details

  • Historical Period: Kingdom of the Netherlands

NGC AU Details – About Uncirculated Preservation

This example has been professionally certifiedNGC AU Details by Numismatic Guaranty Company.

TheAU (About Uncirculated) designation indicates that the coin retains detail consistent with a high level of preservation, with limited circulation wear.

Typical AU-level characteristics include:

  • Light wear on the highest design elements

  • Strong portrait definition

  • Well-preserved heraldic details

  • Clear lettering and inscriptions

  • Potential remaining mint luster

  • Attractive overall design definition

TheDetails designation indicates that NGC identified a condition issue preventing the assignment of a straight numerical grade.

Such issues can include cleaning, scratches, environmental damage, or other surface impairments.

The specific issue should be confirmed from the NGC certification label rather than assumed.

The 2½ Gulden Denomination

The2½ Gulden, also written as2.5 Gulden, was a substantial silver denomination within the Dutch monetary system.

Its large diameter and significant silver content made it suitable for higher-value transactions and commercial activity.

During the nineteenth century, silver coins continued to play an important role in European monetary systems.

The 2½ Gulden denomination is particularly attractive to modern collectors because of its crown-sized format and elaborate royal designs.

High-Purity Dutch Silver

The 1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden was struck in.945 fine silver, a purity higher than the .900 standard commonly encountered on many other nineteenth-century European silver coins.

With a total weight of 25 grams, each coin contains approximately23.625 grams of pure silver.

This corresponds to approximately0.7596 troy ounce.

The substantial silver content and large format give the coin impressive physical presence.

Nineteenth-Century Dutch Coinage

Dutch coinage of the nineteenth century is widely collected for its attractive designs, consistent monetary standards, and historical connection to European trade.

Coins issued during the reign of William III are particularly recognizable because of their royal portrait and traditional Dutch heraldry.

The 1858 2½ Gulden represents a period when the Netherlands was developing into a modern industrial and commercial nation while maintaining its constitutional monarchy.

Historical Significance of 1858

The year1858 falls within the early reign of William III and a period of substantial economic change throughout Europe.

Railroads, steamships, industrial production, and expanding banking networks were transforming commerce.

The Netherlands participated in these developments while maintaining its important role in maritime trade.

Silver coins such as the 2½ Gulden remained essential components of the monetary system.

Today, surviving examples provide a tangible connection to the economic and political history of nineteenth-century Europe.

Collector Appeal

The1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden NGC AU Details appeals to collectors specializing in:

  • Netherlands silver coins

  • Dutch 2½ Gulden denominations

  • King William III coinage

  • European crown-sized silver

  • Nineteenth-century world coins

  • Dutch royal coinage

  • NGC-certified world silver

  • Historic European monetary systems

Its combination of high silver purity, attractive royal portrait, and substantial size makes it particularly desirable as a representative Dutch silver crown.

Why Collect the 1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden?

This coin offers several important characteristics:

  • Historic 1858 Date: Issued during the reign of King William III

  • Classic Dutch Design: Features the king's portrait and crowned national coat of arms

  • High Silver Purity: .945 fine silver

  • Substantial Silver Content: Approximately 0.7596 troy ounce

  • Large Crown Format: Approximately 38 mm diameter

  • NGC Certification: Professionally authenticated

  • AU Details Preservation: Retains strong design detail

  • European Historical Appeal: Represents nineteenth-century Dutch monarchy and commerce

Conclusion

The1858 Netherlands 2½ Gulden Silver Coin NGC AU Details is an attractive example of nineteenth-century Dutch royal coinage.

Featuring the portrait ofKing William III, the crowned Dutch coat of arms, and a substantial25-gram .945 silver composition, it combines classic European coin design with historical significance.

ItsNGC AU Details certification documents its authenticity and remaining About Uncirculated-level detail, while its large silver format provides strong visual appeal.

For collectors ofNetherlands coins, Dutch silver Gulden denominations, European crowns, and nineteenth-century world numismatics, the 1858 2½ Gulden is a distinguished addition to a historical coin collection.

All information provided is strictly for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. For specific financial decisions, consult a licensed professional adviser.

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