$5,773.00 USD
The 1763 14 Gulden gold coin of Utrecht, nicknamed the "Golden Rider" (Gouden Rijder), was a high-denomination issue of the Dutch Republic's Province of Utrecht. Minted at the Royal Dutch Mint in Utrecht, it was part of a series struck between 1749 and 1763 for use in large transactions and international trade.
The 14 Gulden was one of the highest gold denominations of its era in the region, used as a trade coin and store of value. While several Dutch provinces issued similar "Golden Rider" coins (each carrying their provincial arms and legends), Utrecht's issues are distinguished by the Traiectum legend and the shield of Utrecht on the obverse. The knightly figure and heraldry symbolize the military protection and unity of the Dutch Republic during the mid-18th century.
Obverse: An armored knight on horseback (the iconic "golden rider") galloping to the right while brandishing a sword, set above a crowned shield bearing Utrecht's coat of arms. Around the rim is the Latin legend "MO: AUR: PRO: CONFOED: BELG: TRAIECT:", abbreviated from "Moneta Aurea Provinciarum Confoederatum Belgii Traiectum" – "Gold coin of the Province of Utrecht of the United Provinces of the Netherlands, Utrecht." Notably, "Traiectum" is the old Latin name for Utrecht, and a tiny shield mintmark appears above the rider.
Reverse: The crowned arms of the Dutch Republic (Generality) flanked by the denomination. The value "14 – GL." (for 14 Gulden) is split on either side of the crowned arms, and the date 1763 is positioned above. Encircling the reverse is the motto "CONCORDIA RES PARVAE CRESCUNT", a Latin maxim meaning "Unity makes strength."
Specifications:
• Gold content: 0.917 fine (22 karat)
• Weight: Approximately 9.93 grams
• Pure gold content: 0.2928 troy oz AGW
• Diameter: 28 mm
An MS61 specimen thus represents a truly rare survivor from this series, placing it among an elite group of perhaps only a few dozen uncirculated examples known for this date.
Netherlands 14 Gulden, Utrecht
