Obverse: The set consists of eight Netherlands euro coins ranging from 1 cent to 2 euros, all bearing the year 2000. The national side of every denomination features Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. The 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent coins feature a profile portrait of the Queen surrounded by the inscription BEATRIX KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN and the year of issue. The €1 and €2 coins feature a different version of the portrait, with the inscription BEATRIX KONINGIN DER NEDERLANDEN arranged vertically beside it. The coins also bear the marks of the Netherlands Mint and its mint master, together with the 12 stars of the European Union.
Reverse: The reverse of the coins features the first common European design corresponding to each euro denomination. The 1, 2 and 5 cent coins depict Europe in relation to the world, while the 10, 20 and 50 cent and €1 and €2 coins depict the European Union member states of the time. The common sides of the euro coins were designed by Luc Luycx of the Royal Mint of Belgium.
About the coins: Although euro banknotes and coins did not enter circulation in the Netherlands until 1 January 2002, the first Dutch euro coins for collectors were already minted in the preceding years. The 2000 coins belong to the first series of Dutch euro coins featuring Queen Beatrix, which remained in use until her abdication in 2013. The national sides were designed by Dutch artist Bruno Ninaber van Eyben. This set is associated with the period of preparation for the introduction of the euro and was intended to familiarise the public with the new common European currency before euro cash entered everyday circulation.
