Obverse. Photo © The Coinhouse Auctions
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Princess Caroline of Monaco
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Princess Caroline of Monaco
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 Princess Caroline of Monaco wearing a crown, crowned emblem of Monaco in background enclosed by the inscription above, her birth year with name below surrounded by the title of series in French.

Princess Caroline of Monaco, born Caroline Louise Marguerite on January 23, 1957, is the eldest daughter of Rainier III, Prince of Monaco, and Grace Kelly, the American actress who became Princess of Monaco. Known for her elegance and philanthropic efforts, Caroline has played a prominent role in Monegasque society and the royal family. She is involved in numerous charitable organizations, focusing on issues such as children’s welfare, culture, and health. Over the years, she has held various titles and responsibilities, including serving as the president of the Monaco Red Cross. Caroline has been married three times, first to Philippe Junot, then to Stefano Casiraghi, with whom she had three children, and finally to Ernst August, Prince of Hanover. Her public life has been marked by her commitment to cultural initiatives and social causes, reflecting her family's longstanding dedication to service and philanthropy.

MAISONS ROYALES D'EUROPE DES SIECLES DERNIERS
LA PRINCESSE DE MONACO
CAROLINE *1957

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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