Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Francs 2002, KM# 94, Congo, Democratic Republic, Historic Automobiles, Berliet 1908
  • 10 Francs 2002, KM# 94, Congo, Democratic Republic, Historic Automobiles, Berliet 1908
Description

The invention of the automobile was a gradual process, marked by key innovations over several centuries that transformed transportation. In the late 18th century, Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot, a French engineer, created a steam-powered vehicle, which is considered one of the earliest attempts at motorized transport. However, it was Karl Benz, a German inventor, who is credited with developing the first true automobile in 1885—a three-wheeled, gas-powered car known as the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. Benz’s invention was soon followed by improvements from pioneers like Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach, who created the first four-wheeled automobile. In the early 20th century, Henry Ford revolutionized the industry with the Model T and the introduction of the assembly line, making cars affordable and accessible to a broad public. This set the foundation for the global automobile industry, transforming how people live, work, and travel.

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
10 Francs

Reverse

Depicts Berliet 40/50 1904 Tourer automobile, series title in French above, brand name and dates below.

The Berliet 40/50 HP 1904 Tourer was an early luxury automobile created by the French automaker Berliet, known for its elegant design and powerful performance. Produced in the early 1900s, this model featured a large, open touring body style that catered to wealthy clients looking for both sophistication and speed. Equipped with a robust 4-cylinder engine capable of producing between 40 and 50 horsepower, the 40/50 Tourer offered impressive power for its time. Its refined details, spacious design, and advanced engineering reflected the era's craftsmanship and innovation, making it a standout vehicle among early touring cars. The Berliet 40/50 HP symbolizes the prestige and elegance associated with early French automotive engineering.

In 1908, French automaker Berliet made significant strides in automotive design and production, marking a pivotal year for the company. Founded by Marius Berliet, the company initially focused on producing cars but began shifting its attention toward heavier vehicles, including trucks, in the early 20th century. By 1908, Berliet was producing models that were recognized for their durability and power, such as the 12 HP and 22 HP models, which featured advancements like 4-cylinder engines. This year also marked Berliet’s growing reputation in the automotive industry, both for passenger cars and for the robust commercial vehicles that would soon become the company's primary focus. Berliet's developments in 1908 laid the groundwork for its expansion into the production of buses and trucks, solidifying its role as a key player in France’s automotive and transportation industries.

AUTOMOBILES HISTORIQUES
Berliet
1908
2002

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 26 g
Diameter 40 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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Historic Automobiles

Cupronickel, 26 g, ⌀ 40 mm