The currency preceding the euro was the Dutch guilder (NLG), with an exchange rate of 1 euro = 2.20371 NLG.
The Dutch guilder, known as "Gulden" in Dutch, translates to "gold". The term "guilder" derives from the gold coin minted in Florence in the 13th century for trade with the East, while silver coinage was still common in Europe.
For more information on the history of the guilder, you can visit the page dedicated to the guilder.
For further details on the currency and its history, you can consult the Dutch Bank and the Royal Dutch Mint.