Obverse. Photo © The Coinhouse Auctions
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark
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 Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, Danish Royal Crown left, emblem of Denmark right in the background enclosed by the inscription above, her name and date as a queen below surrounded by the title of series in French.

Margrethe II (born 16 April 1940) is the Queen of Denmark, ascending the throne in 1972 as Denmark’s first female monarch since the reign of Margrethe I in the 14th century. Known for her vibrant personality, intellect, and artistic talents, she has modernized the Danish monarchy while preserving its traditions, making it more accessible and relatable to the public. Margrethe is multilingual and highly educated, with studies in archaeology, philosophy, and political science across universities in Denmark, the UK, and France. In addition to her royal duties, she is also a talented artist and translator, illustrating books and designing stage sets, including illustrations for Danish editions of The Lord of the Rings. Her long and dedicated reign has made her one of Europe’s most respected monarchs, often referred to as “Daisy” by her people, who appreciate her approachability and devotion to Danish culture and heritage.

MAISONS ROYALES D'EUROPE DES SIECLES DERNIERS
LA REINE DU DANEMARK
MARGRETHE II. 1972

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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