New Series Inspired by Underwater World of Curaçao and Sint Maarten

Just last month, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) revealed the designs of the new Caribbean Guilder banknotes and coins. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant underwater world that surrounds Curaçao and Sint Maarten, these banknotes reflect both the natural beauty and shared identity of these nations. The new currency quickly provoked positive reactions and social media posts across the two nations.

During twin reveal events in Sint Maarten and Curaçao, CBCS President Mr. Richard Doornbosch, and Executive Director Mrs. Leila Matroos-Lasten, respectively, spoke of the long journey of the Caribbean guilder project which after 5 years of concentrated efforts by all stakeholders, enabled a welcome result: a beautiful and secure new currency for the two countries.

Mr. Doornbosch reflected on some of the challenges that pushed them to pursue a new banknote series: “Our previous currency supplier ceased its operations, and the security features of our old Netherlands Antillean guilder banknotes had become outdated, and every day increasing the risk of counterfeiting.” He also thanked Crane Currency for delivering secure and aesthetically stunning banknotes and for exemplifying true partnership by working closely with the Bank’s Caribbean guilder team to achieve this extraordinary result.

Just because Netherlands Antillean guilder were outdated and the monetary union that issued them no longer existed, did not mean that everyone was a fan of adopting a new currency. In fact, some openly welcomed dollarization, an option the CBCS studied in conjunction with the IMF and ultimately did not pursue. With a mandate to design a new currency, the CBCS developed a comprehensive Communications Plan to address concerns head-on. A creative ‘teaser’ campaign began running in July across different media, including billboards and social media, augmenting interviews and CBCS outreach. By the night of the Design Reveal, the fact that the Caribbean guilder was coming was widely known across both nations. The August 22 events, covered by local TV, let the artistry of the new currency speak for itself – and for the exceptional fauna, flora and famous cultural sites of the island nations.  

As the CBCS continues to count down to the currency’s introduction on March 31, 2025, the public and businesses are already familiarizing themselves with the new banknotes and coins through the “My Caribbean Guilder” mobile app, available for Android and iOS devices. In addition, the CBCS is offering training sessions to ensure a smooth and efficient transition from the Netherlands Antillean guilder to the Caribbean guilder. For more details on the Caribbean guilder, visit www.caribbean-guilder.com and download the “My Caribbean Guilder” app.

At Crane Currency, we are thrilled to have partnered with the CBCS in bringing the new Caribbean guilder to life. The collaboration highlights our commitment to creating innovative, secure, and artistically rich currency solutions for countries around the world.