Obverse. Photo © Coinsberg.com
  • 10 Francs 2005, Congo, Democratic Republic, Pope Stephen IX
  • 10 Francs 2005, Congo, Democratic Republic, Pope Stephen IX
Description

Pope Stephen IX (c. 1020–1058), born Frederick of Lorraine, served as pope from 3 August 1057 until his death on 29 March 1058. A member of a noble and influential family, he was deeply involved in Church reform and sought to combat simony and enforce clerical celibacy. Before his papacy, he served as an abbot of Monte Cassino and as a close advisor to his predecessor, Pope Victor II.

As pope, Stephen IX emphasized the independence of the Church from secular rulers and supported the early stages of what would become the Gregorian Reform movement. His efforts were cut short by his untimely death, after which a contested papal election led to a brief period of instability within the Church. Despite his short tenure, Stephen IX is remembered for his dedication to reform and strengthening papal authority.

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 a portrait of Pope Stephen IX, H.H name opposite him within a beaded circle with Medieval Knights Templar red cross shield below surrounded by a verse of Bible Malachi 3:7 in Latin meaning “God will return you", date below.

The Medieval Knights Templar red cross shield is an iconic symbol associated with the famed Catholic military order founded in 1119. The shield prominently features a red cross, representing the knights' religious devotion and their mission to protect pilgrims and fight in the Crusades. Typically displayed on a white background, the red cross symbolized martyrdom and the Templars' willingness to sacrifice themselves for their faith. The shield not only served as protective gear in battle but also as a powerful emblem of their identity and unity. Over time, it has become a lasting symbol of medieval chivalry, faith, and the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar.

DUMINUS REDDET TIBI
STEPHAN IX.
LR
2005

Edge

10 Francs

Pope Stephen IX

KM#
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 20 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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