Obverse. Photo © Istra Numizmatika
  • 10 Francs 2000, KM# 32, Congo, Democratic Republic, Third Millennium, The Next Step to Mars
  • 10 Francs 2000, KM# 32, Congo, Democratic Republic, Third Millennium, The Next Step to Mars
Description

A millennium is a period of 1,000 years, often used for periods beginning at a calendar's start point or multiples of a thousand years after. The term, derived from Latin "mille" (thousand) and "annus" (year), can also refer to any thousand-year interval. Leading up to the year 2000, there was debate over when the new millennium truly began—whether with the year 2000 or 2001. While some argued for the latter, based on the absence of a year 0, popular culture favored celebrating with the turn from 1999 to 2000, driven by the "odometer effect" and media interest.

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, denomination and the date of issue 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 an Aldrin's bootprint on the Moon, series title, date above and inscription of occasion below.

Buzz Aldrin's bootprint on the Moon is one of the most iconic images from the Apollo 11 mission, symbolizing humanity's first steps on another celestial body. The photograph was taken on July 20, 1969, by Aldrin himself near the lunar module Eagle in the Sea of Tranquility. It shows the impression left by the sole of his boot in the fine lunar regolith, which holds shapes remarkably well due to the absence of atmosphere or wind.

This image is not only historic but also scientifically valuable, as it demonstrates the properties of lunar soil. Unlike Earth, the Moon's regolith is formed from billions of years of micrometeorite impacts, resulting in a powdery but compact texture. Aldrin's bootprint, along with Neil Armstrong’s footprints, will likely remain undisturbed for millions of years unless affected by future human or robotic activities.

MILLENNIUM 2000
THE NEXT STEP TO MARS

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 31.26 g
Diameter -
Width 47.7 mm
Height 27.1 mm
Thickness -
Shape rectangular
Alignment Medal

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