The Dutch guilder (NLG) was the currency of the Netherlands until 2002, when it was replaced by the euro (EUR). At the time of the transition, the exchange rate was fixed at:

1 Euro = 2.20371 Dutch guilders.

How to Estimate the Dutch Guilder in USD:

Since the euro is now the standard currency, the value of the Dutch guilder can be calculated indirectly using current EUR to USD exchange rates. Here’s the method:

1. Check the current EUR to USD exchange rate. For example, if 1 EUR = 1.10 USD.

2. Convert using the fixed rate:

• 1 Guilder ≈ 1 EUR ÷ 2.20371 ≈ 0.45378 EUR

• Convert to USD:

• 1 Guilder ≈ 0.45378 EUR × 1.10 USD ≈ 0.499 USD

Thus, 1 Dutch guilder would be approximately $0.50 USD today.

If you’d like me to calculate with today’s exact EUR/USD rate, let me know!

In 1626, historical records provide us with fascinating insights into economic and commodity prices, though much of the information is derived from estimates or documents from Europe. Here’s an overview of prices, trade, and economics during that period:

1. Key Economic Events

• Dutch Colonial Expansion: The Dutch were prominent in trade and colonization. In 1626, Peter Minuit of the Dutch West India Company famously “purchased” Manhattan Island from the Lenape Native Americans for 60 guilders’ worth of trade goods (equivalent to around $1,000 in modern terms, based on purchasing power).

• Dutch East India Company (VOC): This was the golden era of the Dutch VOC, controlling spice trade routes in Southeast Asia.

• Tulip Mania Beginnings: In the Netherlands, the tulip trade was gaining popularity, leading to one of the first speculative bubbles in history, which peaked in the 1630s.

2. Prices of Common Goods (Approximate Estimates)

Prices are mainly referenced in guilders (NLG) or pounds (in England).

Item Approximate Price (1626)

Bread (1 loaf) ~0.02-0.05 guilders

Butter (1 pound) ~0.25-0.5 guilders

Cheese (1 pound) ~0.4 guilders

Wheat (1 bushel) ~1.5 guilders

Beer (1 pint) ~0.02 guilders

Beef (1 pound) ~0.1 guilders

Spices (e.g., pepper) ~15-20 guilders per pound

Labor (daily wage) ~0.5-1 guilder for common labor

3. Exchange Value of Guilders in 1626

• Silver and Gold Standards: The guilder in 1626 was based on silver content. One guilder contained about 9.61 grams of silver.

• The value of silver at the time was around 2-3 guilders per ounce (approx. 30 grams).

4. Trade Goods and Prices in the Americas

Trade between Europe and the Americas often involved barter. Some goods traded for Native American furs or land in North America:

• Metal tools (axes, knives): Highly valued, equivalent to several furs.

• Beads and trinkets: Low intrinsic value but heavily used in negotiations.

• Cloth and textiles: Cost 2-3 guilders per yard in Europe.

5. Manhattan Purchase (1626)

Peter Minuit’s deal for Manhattan was valued at 60 guilders, often equated to around $1,000 in modern terms based on economic purchasing power. This would have been the equivalent of:

• ~1,200 loaves of bread

• ~150 pounds of butter

• ~40 bushels of wheat

Historical prices from 1626 offer a glimpse into the world economy, showing the relative simplicity and preciousness of certain goods. If you’re curious about specific items or regions, let me know!