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The Netherlands 1 Ounce Silver Lion Dollar 2017 Proof is a beautifully executed modern reissue of one of the most historically important trade coins of the 17th century—the Dutch “Leeuwendaalder” or Lion Dollar. Struck in .999 fine silver and finished in exquisite proof quality, the 2017 edition revives a centuries-old design with contemporary minting precision. Issued by the Royal Dutch Mint, this coin honors the Dutch Lion Dollar’s role in early global commerce, especially in the American colonies, where it circulated widely and even influenced the naming of the U.S. dollar. As the first release in the modern Lion Dollar proof series, the 2017 issue is especially sought after by collectors of world bullion, Dutch coinage, and colonial-era numismatics.
The obverse of the 2017 Silver Lion Dollar features a faithful recreation of the original 1617 design. It depicts a standing knight in ornate armor, holding a shield adorned with a rampant lion—the heraldic symbol of the Dutch Republic. The knight's pose is stately and confident, symbolizing both military readiness and sovereign authority. Surrounding the central design is a stylized legend in Latin: “MO. ARG. PRO. CONFOE. BELG.” which translates to “Silver Money of the Belgian Confederation.” This was the Latin designation for the United Provinces of the Netherlands, which issued the original Lion Dollars during their fight for independence from Spanish rule. In proof condition, the intricate engraving of the armor and lion shield is sharply defined, with the frosted relief rising crisply against a deeply mirrored background.
The reverse features a large, finely detailed heraldic lion standing on its hind legs, grasping a sheaf of arrows in one paw and a sword in the other—a motif drawn from the Dutch coat of arms. Above the lion is a crown symbolizing national sovereignty. This side also includes the denomination “1 DOLLAR,” the year “2017,” and inscriptions noting the coin’s silver content and issuing authority. Unlike the original hammered Lion Dollars of the 17th century, the 2017 proof strike is perfectly round with a brilliant finish, demonstrating the Royal Dutch Mint’s advanced capabilities. The fields are flawlessly polished, and the design elements are frosted with high relief, resulting in deep cameo contrast that enhances the overall visual impact.
This coin was struck in .999 fine silver and contains a full troy ounce (31.1 grams) of pure silver. It has a diameter of 38.7 millimeters, giving it a substantial presence in hand while offering ample surface area to showcase the intricate detail of the designs. Each coin was minted to strict proof standards, with special planchets and dies used to achieve the highest quality finish available. The proof version is distinguished from the bullion strike by its more refined surfaces, higher relief, and lower mintage, all of which contribute to its collectibility and premium value.
The 2017 Proof Lion Dollar was issued in a limited mintage of just 5,000 coins worldwide, making it a low-mintage item that appeals strongly to collectors who value exclusivity. Each coin was housed in an elegant presentation box from the Royal Dutch Mint and accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity. The packaging and official documentation underscore the coin’s status as a premium commemorative issue, suitable for both display and investment.
In terms of historical significance, the Lion Dollar holds a special place in global commerce. First struck in 1575, the original Leeuwendaalder was a widely accepted trade coin throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. It became especially influential in the American colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries, where it circulated alongside Spanish dollars and English sterling. The Dutch Lion Dollar is widely credited with being one of the naming inspirations for the U.S. dollar. By reviving this design in 2017, the Royal Dutch Mint created a modern silver coin that not only commemorates this legacy but also brings it into the 21st-century collector's market with brilliant detail and purity.
Collectors prize the 2017 issue for its dual appeal: it is both a tribute to one of the world’s most historic coins and a beautifully struck, limited-edition proof coin with high intrinsic silver value. The sharply defined devices, rich historical backstory, and limited mintage have made the 2017 Proof Lion Dollar a key piece in modern world silver collections. It is often included in thematic collections of early trade coinage, Dutch numismatics, or modern silver proof series with historical designs.
In terms of condition, proof examples that have remained in their original capsules and packaging typically show no signs of wear, scratches, or toning. High-grade examples are frequently submitted to grading services such as NGC or PCGS, where they often receive PF69 or PF70 designations due to their flawless production quality. Coins that retain their original box and certificate of authenticity maintain full collector appeal and premium market value.
As the first coin in the modern Lion Dollar proof series, the 2017 Netherlands 1 Ounce Silver Lion Dollar PF sets a high benchmark for both artistic execution and historical homage. It represents a bridge between past and present—connecting a coin that once facilitated global trade with today’s international collector market. With its striking imagery, limited mintage, and top-tier finish, this coin is a standout in any collection that values historical continuity, fine silver, and minting excellence.