This year marks a big milestone for the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Organization (KNRM) as it celebrates 200 years of saving lives along the Dutch coast. Since its start in 1824, the KNRM has rescued over 130,000 people, all for free! This amazing organization relies entirely on volunteers and works closely with the Coast Guard, ambulances, fire brigades, police, and lifeguards to ensure safety on the water. To honor this special anniversary, the Royal Dutch Mint has created two €5 coins and one €10 coin. Let’s take a closer look at these coins and their designs, pricing, and significance.
| Coin Type | Weight (grams) | Diameter (mm) | Mintage Limit | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brilliant Uncirculated Silver-Plated €5 | 10.5 | 33 | 10,000 | $19.99 |
| Proof .925 Fine Silver €5 | 15.5 | 33 | 3,500 | $59.95 |
| Proof .900 Fine Gold €10 | 6.72 | 22 | 750 | $695 |
History of KNRM
The KNRM was founded to help people in distress at sea. Over the years, it has evolved into a well-respected organization that conducts rescue operations with the help of volunteers. These brave men and women answer calls for help, often working in challenging weather conditions to save lives. Their work is crucial for keeping the waters safe, and they rely on support from private citizens and shipping companies to continue their operations.
The Special Anniversary Coins
Coin Designs
The coins created for the KNRM anniversary feature beautiful designs that represent the organization’s mission. They were designed by artists Coralie Vogelaar and Hendrik-Jan Grievink.
- Obverse Design: The front of the coins shows King Willem-Alexander gazing out over the calm North Sea, with the words “WILLEM-ALEXANDER, KONING DER NEDERLANDEN” written above in a semi-circle.
- Reverse Design: The back of the coins illustrates the sea in a fierce state, with crashing waves and the silhouette of a KNRM rescue boat. You can even see two volunteers in the boat, showing their dedication to helping others. The text “KONINKLIJKE NEDERLANDSE REDDING MAATSCHAPPIJ 1824 – 2024” surrounds the scene, marking the organization’s 200-year anniversary.
Coin Specifications and Pricing
The KNRM anniversary coins are available in different styles and materials, appealing to both collectors and those wanting to support the KNRM. Here are the details:
- Brilliant Uncirculated Silver-Plated €5 Coin
- Weight: 10.5 grams
- Diameter: 33 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 10,000 pieces
- Price: $19.99
- Proof .925 Fine Silver €5 Coin
- Weight: 15.5 grams
- Diameter: 33 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 3,500 pieces
- Price: $59.95
- Proof .900 Fine Gold €10 Coin
- Weight: 6.72 grams
- Diameter: 22 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 750 pieces
- Price: $695
Conclusion
The Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Organization’s 200th anniversary is a significant occasion that highlights the importance of volunteer rescue services along the Dutch coast. The specially minted coins not only celebrate this milestone but also raise awareness about the KNRM’s ongoing efforts to keep people safe at sea. By purchasing one of these beautiful coins, collectors can help support the KNRM and its life-saving mission. The designs on the coins capture both the calm and the stormy aspects of the sea, reminding us of the challenges faced by rescuers and the lives they touch every day
FAQs
1. What is the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Organization (KNRM)?
The KNRM is a volunteer-based rescue organization that has been operating since 1824. Its mission is to keep people safe at sea along the Dutch coast by providing free rescue services.
2. How many people has the KNRM rescued?
Since its founding, the KNRM has successfully rescued over 130,000 people.
3. What do the coins released for the KNRM anniversary commemorate?
The coins celebrate the KNRM’s 200th anniversary, highlighting its long history of lifesaving operations and honoring the volunteers who contribute to its mission.
4. Who designed the KNRM anniversary coins?
The coins were designed by Coralie Vogelaar and Hendrik-Jan Grievink.
5. What are the designs featured on the coins?
The obverse features King Willem-Alexander looking out over the North Sea, while the reverse depicts turbulent waves with a KNRM rescue boat and volunteers.