Obverse. Photo © The Coinhouse Auctions
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Prince Charles and Princess Diana of the United Kingdom
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Prince Charles and Princess Diana of the United Kingdom
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 youth portrait of Prince Charles and Princess Diana of the United Kingdom smiling, crowned United Kingdom emblem in the background enclosed by the inscription "The Prince and Princess of Wales" in French above, their name below surrounded by the title of the series in French.

Charles III, born Charles Philip Arthur George on November 14, 1948, is the King of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms. He ascended the throne on September 8, 2022, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, making him the oldest person to assume the British throne at age 73. Before becoming king, Charles served as the Prince of Wales for over 60 years, the longest-serving heir apparent in British history. Known for his commitment to charitable causes, environmentalism, and sustainable development, he established organizations such as The Prince’s Trust and actively campaigned for climate action and architectural preservation. As king, Charles III is expected to continue advocating for these issues while modernizing the monarchy, balancing tradition with a progressive outlook to appeal to a new generation.

Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997), born Diana Frances Spencer on July 1, 1961, was a prominent member of the British royal family and a beloved public figure known for her compassion and charitable work. She married Charles, Prince of Wales, on July 29, 1981, and became an icon of style and grace, quickly capturing the public's admiration. Diana was particularly recognized for her efforts in raising awareness about issues such as HIV/AIDS, landmines, and mental health, using her platform to advocate for marginalized individuals. Despite her turbulent marriage, which ended in divorce in 1996, Diana continued to maintain her popularity and influence. Tragically, she died in a car accident in Paris on August 31, 1997, which sparked a global outpouring of grief and led to significant discussions about media intrusion and the pressures faced by the royal family. Her legacy endures through her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, and her ongoing impact on humanitarian efforts.

MAISONS ROYALES D'EUROPE DES SIECLES DERNIERS
LE PRINCE ET LA PRINCESSE DE GALLES
CHARLES ET DIANA

Edge

5 Francs

Royal Families Of Europe
Prince Charles and Princess Diana of the United Kingdom

Subscribe series
KM#
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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