A New Currency Era For Curaçao And Sint Maarten

After years of planning, the Caribbean guilder (XCG) is finally here replacing the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), which had been in use since 1952. This new currency marks a major step forward for Curaçao and Sint Maarten as they modernize their financial system and reinforce their shared economic identity.

To ensure stability, the Caribbean guilder maintains the same fixed exchange rate to the US dollar as its predecessor (US$1 = XCG 1.79). The switch from ANG to XCG is on a one-to-one basis, meaning both currencies hold the same value during the transition.

Both the old and new guilders will circulate together for the first three months. After this dual circulation period, only the Caribbean guilder will remain legal tender. Residents with bank accounts can continue to exchange their old guilders at commercial banks for up to a year, until March 31, 2026. After that, exchanges will only be possible through the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS), which will accept them until March 31, 2055.

The new banknotes and coins were inspired by Caribbean marine life and culture. One side features sea creatures native to the region, while the other highlights historical and cultural landmarks of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. Denominations include 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Caribbean guilders in banknotes and coins from 1 cent to 5 guilders.

Security has been a top priority in the design. The notes include updated anti-counterfeiting features like watermarks, holograms, and tactile markers for people with visual impairments.

Curaçao and Sint Maarten have shared a monetary union since becoming autonomous countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 2010. The introduction of the Caribbean Guilder strengthens this partnership and supports a more efficient monetary policy between the two countries. Aruba and Bonaire, however, are not part of this change and will continue to use their currencies.

To help everyone adjust smoothly, CBCS launched the “My Caribbean Guilder” mobile app, which explains the new banknotes, coins, and security features. More information is also available on the official Caribbean Guilder website.

The introduction of the Caribbean Guilder is more than just a currency change. It’s a new chapter in the region’s financial future, based on shared vision and economic progress.