Obverse. Photo © The Coinhouse Auctions
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Kings of Belgium
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Kings of Belgium
Description

Europe has 12 monarchies, including the unique systems of the Vatican and Andorra. Due to historical intermarriage, all of Europe’s reigning monarchs are related. Since WWII, all hereditary European monarchs have descended from a single common ancestor: John William Friso, Prince of Orange, who died in 1711.

Two German noble families, the Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburgs and the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, are particularly prominent in European royal bloodlines. The British royal family, originally the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, changed its name to Windsor in 1917 when King George V adopted a more British-sounding name to counter anti-German sentiment during WWI.

Obverse

Depicts the official emblem of the Laurent Kabila regime: a gilded snarling lion's head, representing strength and authority, set within a circle. The country’s name is inscribed in French, along with the date. Above, the bank's legend is displayed, and below it is the denomination, flanked by two stars on each side.

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.

★ BANQUE CENTRALE ★
REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE
19 99
DU CONGO
★ 5 FRANCS ★

Reverse

Depicts a multicolored Belgian Royal Crown encircled by six Belgian kings from 1831 to 2000: Leopold I, Leopold II, Albert I, Leopold III, Baudouin, and Albert II, arranged in a clockwise direction., the flag of Belgium in the background enclosed by the inscription above, their reign time below surrounded by the title of series in French.

Leopold I (1790-1865) was the first King of the Belgians, reigning from 1831 to 1865. He established a stable constitutional monarchy following Belgium's independence from the Netherlands and promoted economic development and national unity.

Leopold II (1835-1909) ruled from 1865 to 1909 and is known for his controversial legacy as a colonial ruler. He founded and exploited the Congo Free State, which faced severe human rights abuses under his regime, leading to international condemnation.

Albert I (1875-1934) was King of the Belgians from 1909 to 1934 and is celebrated for his leadership during World War I. He refused to abdicate in the face of German occupation, earning him immense respect. His reign focused on social improvements and economic recovery post-war, and he died tragically in a mountaineering accident, leaving a legacy of courage and devotion.

Leopold III (1901-1983) reigned from 1934 to 1951 and faced significant challenges during World War II, including criticism for staying in Belgium during the German occupation. After the war, he abdicated amid controversy but contributed to post-war reconstruction efforts.

Baudouin (1930-1993) was King of the Belgians from 1951 to 1993 and is remembered for his dedication to national unity during social and political upheaval. His sudden death during a vacation elicited a deep national mourning, solidifying his status as a beloved monarch.

Albert II (born in 1934) served as King from 1993 to 2013, focusing on modernization and social cohesion amid regional divides. Known for his approachable demeanor, he advocated for social issues and maintained a commitment to public service.

MAISONS ROYALES D'EUROPE DES SIECLES DERNIERS
LES ROI DES BELGES
1831-2000

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Nickel Plated Brass
Weight 24.3 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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