Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 5 Francs 2000, KM# 64, Congo, Democratic Republic, The Queen Mother - Royal Friends, Lady Diana Meeting with Pope John Paul II
  • 5 Francs 2000, KM# 64, Congo, Democratic Republic, The Queen Mother - Royal Friends, Lady Diana Meeting with Pope John Paul II
Description

On April 29, 1985, Prince Charles and Princess Diana had a historic meeting with Pope John Paul II at the Vatican, marking a significant moment in royal and papal relations. The visit symbolized a gesture of goodwill between the British monarchy and the Catholic Church, as both Charles and Diana, representatives of the Anglican British monarchy, were warmly received by the Pope. Diana, elegant in a traditional black gown and veil, made a striking impression, while Charles engaged in thoughtful conversation with the pontiff. Their meeting, set against the grandeur of Vatican City, was widely covered by the media, capturing global attention and reflecting the public's fascination with both the young royal couple and the influential Pope. This visit underscored the importance of diplomacy, bridging religious and cultural divides, and highlighted the enduring power of public figures in fostering international goodwill.

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (1900–2002) was Queen of the United Kingdom from 1936 to 1952 as the wife of King George VI, and the last Empress of India until 1947. After her husband's death, she was known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

Born into British nobility, she married Prince Albert, Duke of York, in 1923. With his unexpected ascension to the throne in 1936, Elizabeth became queen consort. During WWII, her steadfast spirit supported the British public. After King George VI's death, her daughter became queen, and Elizabeth became the family matriarch. She remained a beloved public figure, active until shortly before her death at 101.

Obverse

Depicts an official emblem of the Laurent Kabila regime: a mature male lion standing to the left amid the grass, symbolizing strength and authority. Above the lion is the country’s name in French, and the denomination is placed below.

Kabila’s regime, which began in 1997 after he overthrew Mobutu Sese Seko, was characterized by efforts to rebuild the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire) after decades of dictatorship. His government sought to restore national sovereignty, but faced internal conflict and external pressures, particularly during the Second Congo War.

REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO
5 FRANCS

Reverse

Depicts a portrait of Lady Diana facing right smiling conjugated with Pope John Paul II three-quarter left smiling also surrounded by her name with birth and death dates above and inscription of occasion with date below. The title of the series above with an oval portrait for The Mother Queen, birth and issue year dates below.

Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997), was a beloved member of the British royal family, known for her compassionate heart, elegance, and dedication to humanitarian causes. Married to Prince Charles in 1981, Diana quickly captivated the public with her grace and relatable warmth, becoming an international icon. Although her life was often overshadowed by media scrutiny and the challenges of royal life, she used her influence to raise awareness on issues such as AIDS, homelessness, and mental health. Her empathy and hands-on approach to charity work earned her the nickname "The People’s Princess," as she connected deeply with those she helped. Despite her tragic death in 1997, Diana’s legacy lives on through her humanitarian contributions, her sons, and the continued global admiration for her as a symbol of kindness and resilience.

THE QUEEN MOTHER - ROYAL FRIENDS
1900-2000
LADY DIANA 1961-1997
MEETING WITH POPE JOHN PAUL II, SPRING 1985

Edge

5 Francs

The Queen Mother - Royal Friends
Lady Diana Meeting with Pope John Paul II

Subscribe series
KM# 64
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 28.75 g
Diameter 38 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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The Queen Mother - Royal Friends

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