This listing is for one photographed 1949 Netherlands 2 1/2 Gulden Note. This note was issued after the Netherlands regained independence from German occupation during World War II on May 18th, 1945. The obverse of this note depicts a portrait of Queen Juliana on the left end. Choice Very Fine (VF+) grade/condition. Excellent piece if history, making for a great addition to any collection! P# 73 (Pick Number 73).
During World War II, the Netherlands experienced significant economic challenges due to the German occupation, which lasted from May 1940 until May 1945. After Germany invaded the Netherlands in May 1940, the country quickly fell under Nazi control. The Nazis imposed strict economic controls, directing the Dutch economy to serve German war needs. Severe food shortages caused widespread famine, particularly in the cities, leading to the deaths of around 20,000 people.
During the occupation, German authorities had issued large amounts of currency, leading to inflation and economic instability. After the war, the Dutch economy was in ruins. Infrastructure was heavily damaged, and industries had been stripped of their resources. Immediately after liberation, in mid-1945, the Dutch government decided to replace the old currency with newly printed banknotes, known as "Noodgeld." These new banknotes were designed to replace the old, occupation-era notes that had been tainted by inflation and oversupply. People were required to exchange their old banknotes at local banks or financial institutions for newly issued notes. The exchange process was strict, with citizens only allowed to exchange a limited amount of money per person or household in order to prevent rampant inflation moving forward. The emergency notes were used for a short period while the government worked on printing a new, permanent series of banknotes. These new banknotes, bearing different designs, were issued in late 1945 and early 1946 to replace the temporary currency.
The economic history of the Netherlands during World War II provides great insight into the issuance of banknotes during this era, such as the ones listed here, adding to their value and historical significance!
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1949 Netherlands 2 1/2 Gulden Banknote - 1949 Muntbiljet Issue - Juliana Portrait Issue - 1949 Netherlands Two and a Half Gulden Note - P#73