Caribbean Guilders

XCG43,52

Editor: Martina Doevelaar
Date of Issue: March 31 , 2025
Stamp paper: True White
Face Value of Stamps: Cat. 1, Cat. 2, 77c, 372c, 534c, 834c
Size of Stamps:  30 x 60 mm
Printing: Offset
Printer: Bpost Stamps Printing, Mechelen, Belgium

Description

Fifteen years after the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles as a country, the Netherlands Antillean guilder will also be withdrawn from circulation. As of March 31, 2025, the new Caribbean guilder will become the official currency within the monetary union of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. The design of this new currency celebrates the rich flora and fauna of the Caribbean Sea, which connects both nations. The front of the banknotes features the vibrant native marine life of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, while the reverse side showcases important historical and cultural monuments from both islands. These banknotes are equipped with the most advanced security features. The underwater world is also subtly reflected in the coins of the Caribbean guilder, which depict sea elements such as shells and baby turtles.

To mark this historic milestone, Cpost, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Curaçao & Sint Maarten, is launching an exclusive stamp series that highlights the new colorful banknotes and coins. The series consists of 12 unique stamps distributed over six distinct sheets. The vision is clear: the new currency takes center stage. Subtle underwater imagery enhances the theme without distracting from the foreground. Each stamp’s background is meticulously refined within the sea-inspired palette, ensuring every banknote is beautifully showcased.

The harmonious rhythm of the letters in ‘Curaçao’ gradually fades, evoking the depth and the seemingly infinite nature of the sea. This typographic grid brings all elements together in a balanced composition, where layering is both visually and conceptually compelling.
These stamps will be available from April 1, 2025, at Cpost branch offices in Punda and Groot Kwartier. Whether you are a philatelist or simply curious, it is well worth stopping by to purchase a set of these vibrant stamps.