Aruba Anniversaries

Aruba celebrates two milestones this year: 40 years of independence and the 50th anniversary of its flag and national anthem. To mark the special occasions, the Central Bank of Aruba has released two commemoratives, each with compelling stories to tell.

Aruban Independence

In 1972 Aruban politician Betico Croes proposed the creation of a Dutch Commonwealth to include the Netherlands, Aruba, Suriname, and the Netherlands Antilles (a self-governing entity comprising the other Dutch Caribbean possessions), with each country equal and independent. Aruba adopted a new flag and national anthem in 1976 in anticipation of eventual secession. In March 1977, Aruba held a referendum on independence with 95 percent of its population in support of the measure. It wasn’t until March 1983 that Aruba obtained an official agreement for full independence. Aruba then drafted a constitution that was unanimously approved in August 1985. On January 1, 1986, it seceded from the Netherlands Antilles. 

Though Aruba planned for full autonomy in 1996, the governments of Aruba, the Netherlands, and the Netherlands Antilles indefinitely postponed the transition. Officials decided to revive the process after the Aruban government requested another referendum. Today, Aruba, along with Curaçao and Saint Maarten, are constituent countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The kingdom still handles Aruba’s foreign affairs and defense. 

The Commemoratives

The 5-florin silver prooflike and colorized coins were produced by the Royal Dutch Mint in Houten, Netherlands, on behalf of Aruba. The obverse features the interlocking numerals “40” and “50” in the center, with the four-pointed star from the Aruban flag on the “0” of “40,” and a lighthouse composing the stem of the “4.” A keyboard, violin, trumpet, musical staff, and drum frame the numerals. Mintage for both pieces is limited to 700. The coins are available through the Royal Dutch Mint’s website.