Numismatic

2025 Netherlands 2 oz Proof Silver Parrot Duit (w/Box/COA)

This exceptional modern release reimagines a classic piece of numismatic history, marking a half century of independence for Suriname. Struck in two ounces of highly refined silver, the coin is a modern tribute to the original 1679 Parrot Duit. While the historical seventeenth century pieces were struck in copper with a modest diameter of about 20 mm, this contemporary edition scales up the design to a substantial 38.7 mm format with a flawless proof finish. The obverse features a detailed depiction of a parrot perched upon a leafy branch. Historically, these birds were selected to grace the earliest coinage of Suriname as symbols representing pounds of sugar. The number of leaves on the branch carried a specific financial meaning, indicating the coin's value in stuivers, which were worth five cents. A single leaf denoted one stuiver, two leaves meant two stuivers, and four leaves represented four stuivers. On the reverse, a beautifully detailed ornamental tree stands in place of the plain or simple tree designs often found on the backs of the original copper pieces. Produced by the Royal Dutch Mint, this special silver edition is limited to an incredibly small mintage of just 75 proof pieces. It offers a fascinating window into early trade history, transforming a historic copper utility coin into a modern masterpiece of precious metal.