Curaçao and Sint Maarten have introduced a new currency, the Caribbean guilder. The issuance includes five banknotes and seven coins, each matching the value of the former Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG). Designed around a “World Under the Sea” theme, the new notes and coins celebrate the marine richness that links the two islands and underscore their shared monetary cooperation. Curaçao is currently the most searched international summer destination, drawing attention to the currency launch as part of broader tourism interest.
© Curaçao Tourist Board
The obverse sides of the new banknotes highlight the islands’ vivid marine life, featuring coral reefs, tropical fish and other seascape elements rendered in bright, secure printing. The reverse sides showcase important historical and cultural landmarks from both islands, offering visual narratives that reflect local heritage and identity. Coins carry detailed motifs as well: portraits of King Willem-Alexander, depictions of local marine species and the distinctive orange blossom shared by Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
Two coin series were released, one labeled Curaçao and the other Sint Maarten. Despite the labeling, coins from either series are fully legal tender across both countries, ensuring smooth everyday transactions and avoiding confusion for residents and visitors alike. The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten has coordinated the issue to support seamless circulation within the monetary union.
Practical details for travelers and residents: the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) remains accepted until June 30, after which all change will be given in Caribbean guilders. This transition period allows people time to adapt while preserving parity between the old and new currencies. Individuals who still hold ANG notes or coins after the deadline can exchange them at the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten until March 31, 2055, ensuring long-term convertibility and financial certainty.
The Caribbean guilder reflects both continuity and renewal. By preserving the ANG’s value, authorities have minimized disruption to pricing, contracts and daily commerce. At the same time, the new designs emphasize local culture and the islands’ natural marine environments, reinforcing a regional identity attractive to tourists and residents. The introduction of the currency also serves as a tangible expression of the monetary union the two islands formed after the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, when Curaçao and Sint Maarten became autonomous countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Overall, the launch aims to blend functionality with symbolism: secure, easily recognized banknotes and coins for everyday use, together with imagery that celebrates the islands’ shared heritage and underwater ecosystems. Visitors planning trips to Curaçao or Sint Maarten should expect to receive Caribbean guilders for change during transactions and can rest assured that currency exchange facilities will accommodate any remaining ANG for many years to come.