Netherlands Proof Silver Ducat 2025. Poelepoort in Groningen

The issue depicting the “Poelepoort”  is part and also the seventh issue of the series “Dutch city gates and access roads.”

Unfortunately, we can no longer admire the Poelepoort gate in Groningen in person, as it was demolished in the 19th century. However, various sources indicate that the Poelepoort gate was one of six city gates in Groningen. It was build in the 13th century: foundations were discovered in 1989 during sewerage works.

The original Poelepoort gate was most likely demolished around 1470 and moved a few meters: this new tower became the most impressive tower of the city, because of its two towers. Foundations of this new Poelepoort tower have been found during excavations in 1929 and 1989. While the gate served as a prison gate, the area behind it was used as a fortification: the city's army could be stationed behind the Poelepoort gate. This square is colloquially known as Poeleplein and is a major entertainment venue in Groningen.

The obverse of the Silver Ducat “Poelepoort” depicts Duke Karel van Egmond in front of the famous building. The province weapon of Groningen can be found on his shield. The inscription on this issue reads: “MO.NO.ARG.REG.BELGII.GRO.”. “MO.NO.ARG.REG.BELGII.” is the Latin abbreviation for “Moneta Nova Argenta Regni Belgii”: New Silver coin of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. GRO stands for the province of Groningen.   

On the reverse of the Silver Ducat, the national coat of arms of the Netherlands with the Royal Crown between the numbers of the year can be found. The inscription reads: “CONCORDIA RES PARVAE CRESCUNT”, Unity makes Strength. Here you can also find the mint mark and the privy mark.