Catalog
| Issuer | Aruba |
|---|---|
| Year | 1995-2005 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Florin (5 AWG) |
| Currency | Florin (1986-date) |
| Composition | Nickel plated steel |
| Weight | 8.64 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | 1.9 mm |
| Shape | Square with rounded corners |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Evelino Fingal |
| In circulation to | 1 October 2005 |
| Reference(s) | KM#12, Schön#7 |
| Obverse description | National arms of Aruba with date and value. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ARUBA 1997 5 flORIN |
| Reverse description | Silhouette of Queen Beatrix facing left. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
Beatrix KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN (Translation: Beatrix QUEEN OF THE NETHERLANDS) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
Royal Dutch Mint (Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt), Utrecht, Netherlands (1010-date) |
| Mintage |
1995 - - 208 500 1996 - - 357 500 1997 - - 27 500 1998 - - 162 000 1999 - - 86 200 2000 - In Sets only - 7 500 2001 - In Sets only - 6 900 2002 - In Sets only - 6 000 2003 - In Sets only - 4 000 2004 - In Sets only - 2 500 2005 - In Sets only - 2 500 |
| Numisquare ID | 4230902730 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The Aruban 5 Florins coin, issued from 1995 to 2005, features Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, who served as Aruba's constitutional monarch. This period followed Aruba's attainment of 'status aparte' within the Kingdom in 1986, granting it monetary independence. The coin series thus symbolizes Aruba's autonomous status and its distinct currency, while simultaneously affirming its enduring connection to the Dutch monarchy and its historical legacy.
Artistry: The obverse design presents a dignified effigy of Queen Beatrix, executed in a realistic, contemporary portraiture style common to late 20th-century European coinage. While the specific engraver is often undocumented for this series, the stylistic approach aligns with a modern classical school, emphasizing clarity and regal representation. The reverse typically displays the Aruban coat of arms, a rich symbolic emblem incorporating elements like the lion, aloe plant, and Santa Cruz cross, reflecting the island's heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a nickel-plated steel planchet (8.64 grams, 26.00 mm), this coin requires attention to high-points for grading. These include the hair details and cheekbone on Beatrix's portrait, and the intricate elements within the Aruban coat of arms. A full, sharp strike shows clear hair separation and crisp heraldic details. Luster retention and plating integrity are crucial; wear often manifests as dullness or plating loss, especially on raised areas.